Jessica'S Homemade Stew
Jessica's Homemade Stew is a hearty, savory dish combining tender meats and vegetables, perfect for family dinners and slow-cooker comfort. Rich flavors develop over hours.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut rib meat and chicken into 1/2-inch pieces and season to taste.
- Place the meats into a Crockpot or slow cooker and fill with water.
- Cook on low heat for two hours.
- Add stewed tomatoes, Pace Picante sauce, and steak sauce to the slow cooker.
- Continue cooking on low heat for one hour.
- About 30 minutes before serving, turn the slow cooker to high heat.
- Add the canned corn, peas, lima beans, diced potatoes, salt, and pepper.
- Cook on high for the remaining time until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the rib meat and chicken before adding them to the slow cooker. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the potatoes or add a slurry of cornstarch and water during the last cooking phase. You can also substitute the vegetables based on your preference; for instance, green beans or carrots can work well in this dish.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty stew is perfect served with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal. Consider pairing it with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for added nutrition. It also pairs beautifully with Garden-Style Chicken Salad for a delightful contrast in flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, use a microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. If the stew thickens too much during storage, simply add a little liquid while reheating to restore the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jessica'S Homemade Stew contains roughly 1027 calories, with 23g protein, 180g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (238% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (70% of the Daily Value), and potassium (65% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 957mg per serving (42% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of meat in this stew?
Absolutely! You can substitute the rib meat and chicken with beef, pork, or even turkey. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of meat you choose to ensure everything is tender and flavorful.
Is it possible to make this stew ahead of time?
Yes, this stew actually tastes better the next day after the flavors have melded together. You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving, and it’s ready to enjoy.
What can I do if I want to make it spicier?
To add a kick to your stew, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce when you add the other ingredients. You can also use a spicier brand of picante sauce to enhance the heat level.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).