Packer Stew
A hearty, slow-cooked beef stew with vegetables and savory flavors, perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings that appreciate rich, comforting dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put all ingredients raw into a roaster.
- Cover the roaster.
- Bake at 250°F for 5 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the stew meat in a skillet before adding it to the roaster. If you prefer a thicker stew, increase the amount of rice or tapioca. You can also substitute the stewed tomatoes with diced fresh tomatoes or a can of tomato sauce for a different taste. Adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves can enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Packer Stew with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Cool Marinated Carrots for a refreshing contrast. You can also top it with fresh parsley for added color and flavor. If you want a heartier meal, consider serving it over a bed of rice or with a side of cornbread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Packer Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to 3 months; just ensure they’re well-sealed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Packer Stew contains roughly 1522 calories, with 30g protein, 282g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (188% of the Daily Value), and potassium (106% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1160mg per serving (50% 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 frozen vegetables in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables instead of fresh. Just add them in the last hour of cooking to prevent them from becoming too mushy. Frozen peas or corn can be excellent additions for extra flavor and nutrition.
What can I do if the stew is too salty?
If your stew turns out too salty, you can balance the flavor by adding a potato or two, which will absorb some of the saltiness. Alternatively, adding a bit of water or broth can help dilute the saltiness, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How can I make this stew spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix. You can also serve the stew with hot sauce on the side, allowing each person to adjust the spice level to their liking.
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).