Mama'S Ho-Bo Stew
Mama's Ho-Bo Stew is a hearty, flavorful dish combining ground beef, tomatoes, and vegetables, perfect for comforting family dinners with rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet, and drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add chopped onions to the skillet and cook until browned.
- Pour the beef and onion mixture into a large stew pot.
- Add chopped tomatoes and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Stir in frozen stew mix and simmer until vegetables are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in the stew. If you don't have frozen stew mix, you can substitute with fresh or frozen vegetables such as carrots and peas. To enhance the richness, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce. This dish can be made with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, similar to American recipes featuring ground meats.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. A side of crisp salad, such as Broccoli Salad Mold, can provide a refreshing contrast. For a family-style dinner, consider pairing it with mashed potatoes or cornbread to soak up the delicious broth.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Mama's Ho-Bo Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but be sure to cover the bowl to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mama'S Ho-Bo Stew contains roughly 12 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 498mg per serving (22% 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 fresh vegetables instead of frozen stew mix?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh vegetables! Just chop carrots, green beans, and potatoes, and add them to the stew. Keep in mind that fresh vegetables may require a longer cooking time to become tender, so adjust your simmering time accordingly.
How can I make this stew thicker?
To thicken the stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour with a bit of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the simmering stew. Alternatively, let it cook uncovered for a longer period to allow some of the liquid to evaporate, concentrating the flavors.
Can I freeze Mama's Ho-Bo Stew?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the stew cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove until warmed through.
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).