Lo-Fat Beef Stew
A hearty low-fat beef stew packed with tender lean beef, fresh vegetables, and flavorful tomatoes, perfect for a comforting and healthy family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spray a roaster with cooking spray or use 1 tablespoon of canola oil.
- On medium-high heat, brown the lean beef, stirring slowly to prevent scorching.
- Once the meat is browned, add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and about 1 quart of water.
- Cook on medium heat until the meat is tender, approximately 1 1/2 hours.
- Add fresh sliced carrots and cook for 30 minutes.
- Then add potatoes and stewed sliced tomatoes to the sauce.
- Continue cooking until the potatoes are done.
- Serve with baked cornbread and a fresh tossed salad.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a bay leaf during cooking. You can substitute the very lean beef stew with turkey for a lighter option. If you're short on time, using pre-cut vegetables can speed up the prep process. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference; fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary also enhance the taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stew hot with a side of baked cornbread for a comforting meal. A fresh tossed salad complements the dish nicely, adding a crisp texture. For a complete dining experience, consider pairing this stew with 'Pigs In The Blanket' Stuffed Cabbage for a delightful twist on your dinner table.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it’s too thick. It can also be reheated in the microwave; just ensure it’s heated through completely before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lo-Fat Beef Stew contains roughly 927 calories, with 14g protein, 131g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (118% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (88% of the Daily Value), and potassium (59% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2314mg per serving (101% 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 make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef first, then transfer it to the slow cooker. Add all the other ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What can I use instead of potatoes?
If you want to skip potatoes, consider adding sweet potatoes or turnips for a different flavor profile. You could also use barley or quinoa to add some texture and heartiness to the stew.
Is it possible to add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like peas, green beans, or bell peppers. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary; add firmer vegetables earlier and softer ones closer to the end.
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).