No Watch Stew
No Watch Stew is a hearty, slow-cooked beef stew packed with carrots, potatoes, and celery, simmered in tomato soup and seasoned with chili powder. Its effortless preparation makes it perfect for busy days or gatherings, offering rich flavors and tender meat with minimal supervision.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put all ingredients into a Dutch oven and cover.
- Cook at 250°F (120°C) for 5 1/2 hours, without needing to be checked.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider browning the stew meat before adding it to the Dutch oven. You can substitute the tomato soup with diced tomatoes or tomato paste if preferred. If you want a thicker stew, increase the tapioca slightly. Adjust the chili powder based on your heat preference. This recipe is forgiving, so feel free to add other vegetables you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the No Watch Stew with crusty bread or over rice for a hearty meal. A side salad dressed with Tangy Orange Vinaigrette Dressing can provide a refreshing contrast. This stew also pairs beautifully with Cathy'S East Texas Cobbler Cake for a comforting dinner experience, making it perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, covering them to prevent drying out. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of No Watch Stew contains roughly 1172 calories, with 19g protein, 182g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (170% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (87% of the Daily Value), and potassium (86% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1012mg per serving (44% 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 a slow cooker instead of a Dutch oven?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Simply combine all ingredients and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, similar to traditional American recipes.
What can I substitute for tapioca?
If you don't have tapioca, cornstarch or flour can be used as a thickening agent. Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour with a bit of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it in towards the end of cooking to thicken the stew to your desired consistency.
Is this stew suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This No Watch Stew is perfect for meal prep. It stores well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop. Just remember to separate it into individual portions for easy reheating throughout the week.
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).