Lazy Stew(Any Size)
A hearty, no-fuss stew with tender meat, vegetables, and tomato flavor, perfect for comforting family dinners or quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine stew meat, chopped carrots, small red potatoes, small onions, and chopped celery in a large pot.
- Add 2 tablespoons of tapioca to help thicken the stew.
- Pour in the can of tomato soup and enough water or broth to cover the ingredients.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
- Simmer for about 2 hours, or until the meat and vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the stew meat before adding the vegetables. If you don't have tapioca, cornstarch can be used as a thickening substitute. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or peas for added nutrition. If you prefer a spicier kick, a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes works wonders. This lazy stew is a great way to use up leftover veggies from other meals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Lazy Stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a heartier meal. A light salad, such as Mandarin Lettuce Salad, complements the stew nicely by adding freshness. This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed on its own or paired with sides like Yummie Yams for a balanced dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Lazy Stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lazy Stew(Any Size) contains roughly 389 calories, with 1g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber.
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 frozen vegetables in this stew?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen vegetables as a convenient alternative. Just add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking to ensure they retain their texture and flavor. This allows for a quick prep while still enjoying a hearty meal.
How can I make this stew more flavorful?
Enhance the flavor by adding herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves during cooking. A splash of Worcestershire sauce or balsamic vinegar can also elevate the taste. Experimenting with spices can help tailor the stew to your preference.
Is it possible to make this stew vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the stew meat with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, lentils, or chickpeas for a vegetarian version. Use vegetable broth instead of water or meat-based broth, and you can still achieve a deliciously thick and savory stew.
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).