"Not At Home Stew"
Not At Home Stew is a hearty, comforting dish featuring tender boneless meat, potatoes, carrots, and onions simmered in a rich tomato gravy. Perfect for family dinners, it offers a flavorful, thick stew with savory seasonings and a satisfying texture that warms the soul.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Into a very large casserole, layer the boneless stew meat, peeled and cut potatoes, onions, celery, seasonings, and 1/3 cup of instant tapioca.
- Add enough tomato sauce to cover all the ingredients.
- Put on the lid.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 4 to 6 hours until the meat is tender and the gravy is rich and thick.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the stew meat overnight in your favorite spices. If you're out of tapioca, cornstarch can be a suitable substitute for thickening the gravy. Feel free to add other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for added depth. This stew can also benefit from a splash of red wine for complexity.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal. A simple side of Best Quick Salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the stew. For a touch of brightness, consider adding a dollop of Jalapeno Jelly on the side.
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, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. This stew also freezes well; just ensure it's cooled completely before sealing it in freezer bags.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Not At Home Stew" contains roughly 1185 calories, with 49g protein, 165g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (110% of the Daily Value), potassium (106% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (102% of the Daily Value). 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 use frozen vegetables in this stew?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables as a convenient alternative. Just be sure to add them a little later in the cooking process to prevent them from becoming mushy. This can save time and still yield a delicious result.
What type of meat is best for stew?
Chuck roast is commonly recommended for stew due to its balance of tenderness and flavor when cooked slowly. However, you can also use brisket or round if you prefer. Each will yield a different texture and taste.
How do I know when the stew is done?
The stew is done when the meat is fork-tender and the vegetables are soft. This usually takes about 4 to 6 hours at a low temperature. You can also check the gravy; it should be thick and well-combined with all the ingredients.
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).