Middleman Stew
A hearty and flavorful bean and beef stew with sweet and tangy notes, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking a quick, savory meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a pan. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Saute the chopped green pepper and onion until soft.
- Drain the grease from the pan and add the cooked ground beef back in.
- Add the drained baked beans, drained kidney beans, brown sugar, and catsup to the pan.
- Stir until all ingredients are well blended.
- Cover the pan and cook over low heat for 45 to 60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add salt to taste before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or smoked paprika. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, use lentils or a mix of beans instead of ground beef. This stew can be customized with additional vegetables such as corn or diced tomatoes to enhance flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Middleman Stew with warm cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Hobo Steaks for a complete feast. Garnish with fresh parsley or shredded cheese for added flavor. A side of coleslaw or a simple green salad can complement the rich flavors of the stew.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture. This stew also freezes well for up to 3 months; just thaw before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Middleman Stew contains roughly 582 calories, with 31g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (110% of the Daily Value), protein (63% of the Daily Value), and iron (58% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. It also contributes 31g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables before transferring them to the slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! To add heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper. You can also mix in your favorite hot sauce or use spicy baked beans for an extra kick. Adjust the spice level according to your preference for a customized flavor experience.
What can I use instead of brown sugar?
If you don't have brown sugar on hand, you can substitute it with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses to mimic the flavor. Alternatively, honey or maple syrup can work as sweeteners, but you may need to adjust the quantity to taste, as these are liquid sweeteners.
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).