North Country Stew
Hearty North Country Stew combines savory bacon, sausage, wild rice, and mushrooms in a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for chilly days and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook bacon, sausage, and chopped onion until bacon is crisp.
- Drain excess fat and set aside.
- In a Dutch oven or large saucepan, combine cooked wild rice, cream of mushroom soup, water, drained sliced mushrooms, chopped celery, Italian seasoning, and pepper.
- Add the cooked bacon, sausage, and onions to the mixture.
- Cover and simmer for 30 to 60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked sausage instead of regular sausage. If you want a lighter version, substitute turkey bacon and chicken sausage. You can also add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Experiment with different herbs if you don’t have Italian seasoning, such as thyme or rosemary, to enhance the stew.
Serving Suggestions
Serve North Country Stew with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Cheddar Cheese Rolls, adding a delightful cheesy contrast. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside Adirondack Beans, which complement the stew’s flavors well. Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover North Country Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also use the microwave, covering the bowl with a lid or microwave-safe wrap, and heating in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of North Country Stew contains roughly 747 calories, with 19g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (210% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and protein (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1021mg 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 make North Country Stew in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, the flavors deepen and improve when made a day ahead. Just refrigerate it after cooking and reheat when ready to serve. This makes it a great option for meal prep or gatherings, as it allows you to spend less time cooking on the day of your event.
What type of rice works best for this stew?
While the recipe calls for wild rice, you can also use brown rice or a mix of both for a different texture. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust the simmering time accordingly to ensure the rice is tender and fully cooked.
Can I freeze North Country Stew?
Yes, North Country Stew freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave 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).