Mama'S Quick Stew
A hearty, flavorful beef stew packed with vegetables and rich tomato sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners and suitable for those craving a classic homemade meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat a pot on medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add vegetable oil to the pot.
- Brown the beef stew meat in the oil.
- Add sliced white onion to the browned meat.
- Turn the heat to low.
- Stir in the small can of tomato sauce, water from the sauce can, a dash of cayenne pepper, and salt.
- Cut up carrots and add them along with the frozen peas.
- Cook covered for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add potatoes if desired.
- Cook for an additional 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the beef stew meat in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs before cooking. You can substitute fresh peas for frozen if they're in season, or use green beans for a different twist. If you're looking for a spicy kick, add more cayenne pepper to taste. This stew is versatile, so feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a satisfying meal. A side salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the stew. This dish pairs beautifully with recipes like Hot Dogs With Cheesy Corn Topping or Yummy Cheeseburger Pie for a fun family dinner. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the stew cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mama'S Quick Stew contains roughly 566 calories, with 16g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (89% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (77% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (68% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2152mg per serving (94% 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 chicken instead of beef for this stew?
Yes, you can substitute chicken for beef. Use chicken thighs for a juicier texture, and adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken cooks faster than beef. Make sure to monitor the stew to prevent overcooking.
What can I do if the stew is too thick?
If your stew becomes too thick, simply add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes to combine the flavors. This will help maintain the stew's rich taste.
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef and onions on the stovetop first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes for a convenient meal.
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).