Old-Fashioned Beef Stew
This Old-Fashioned Beef Stew is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for chilly evenings. With tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, it brings classic flavors to the table. Ideal for family gatherings, this stew is sure to warm hearts and bellies alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and pepper.
- Coat meat with flour mixture.
- Melt shortening in a large skillet; brown meat thoroughly.
- Add water; heat to boiling.
- Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 2 hours.
- Stir in remaining ingredients.
- Simmer for 30 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker stew, consider adding a slurry of cornstarch and water towards the end of cooking. If you don’t have shortening, vegetable oil can be a good substitute. Feel free to add extra vegetables like peas or green beans for more flavor and nutrition. This stew is also great for meal prepping, as the flavors deepen when reheated.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a twist, try serving it alongside stuffed peppers for a hearty dinner experience. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the stew gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old-Fashioned Beef Stew contains roughly 2719 calories, with 35g protein, 281g carbohydrates, and 168g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (204% of the Daily Value), iron (173% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (112% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1287mg per serving (56% 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 different type of meat for this stew?
Yes, you can substitute beef with other meats like pork or even chicken, but cooking times may vary. For tougher cuts, ensure they are cooked long enough to become tender. Adjust seasoning accordingly, as different meats may have varying flavor profiles.
What can I do if the stew is too salty?
If your stew turns out too salty, you can add more water or low-sodium broth to dilute the saltiness. Adding extra vegetables or a potato can also help absorb some of the excess salt. Let it simmer longer to balance the flavors.
How can I make this stew more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding herbs such as thyme, bay leaves, or rosemary during the simmering process. A splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce can also deepen the flavor profile. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasonings before serving!
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).