Paw Paw'S Stew
A hearty beef stew with fresh vegetables and tomatoes, featuring a sweet and savory flavor profile, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat a small amount of oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and cook until translucent.
- Add cubed beef and brown on all sides.
- Stir in salt, sugar, and pepper to taste.
- Add carrots, diced celery, and green beans to the pot.
- Pour in the can of stewed tomatoes and bring to a boil.
- Add Minute tapioca and mix well.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 1 hour or until beef is tender.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using beef broth instead of water when cooking. If you don't have Minute tapioca, cornstarch can work as a thickener, but add it towards the end of cooking. For a twist, try adding some diced potatoes for extra heartiness or substitute green beans with fresh peas or corn. This stew is similar to hearty American recipes like Dad's Door County Chili.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Garden Tenderloin Rolls for a delightful family dinner. Consider a side salad for freshness or some roasted vegetables to complement the rich flavors. A dollop of sour cream on top can add a lovely creaminess.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. The flavors tend to deepen after a day, making it even more delicious.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Paw Paw'S Stew contains roughly 1393 calories, with 18g protein, 189g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (115% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and protein (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 797mg per serving (35% 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 this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef and onions first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes the beef incredibly tender.
Is there a vegetarian version of this stew?
Absolutely! You can replace the beef with a mix of hearty vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, and zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of water and skip the meat. You can also add chickpeas or lentils for protein. The cooking time may vary, but aim for a similar simmer until the vegetables are tender.
What type of beef is best for this stew?
For the best results, use a cut of beef that is ideal for stewing, such as chuck or brisket. These cuts have more fat and connective tissue, which break down during cooking, making the meat tender and flavorful. Avoid lean cuts, as they can become tough when cooked for long periods.
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).