Peter'S Soupy Meat
A hearty, flavorful meat and bean stew with smoky bacon, savory beef, and a tangy tomato-based sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the bacon until it's crisp, then remove and set aside, saving about half the drippings in the pan.
- Brown the ground beef in the bacon drippings until cooked through.
- Meanwhile, boil the diced celery and finely chopped onion in just enough water to cover until they are almost tender.
- Add the cooked celery, onions, and the boiling water to the browned beef in the pan.
- Stir in the ketchup, baked beans, and A-1 sauce.
- Simmer on low heat for a short time.
- Serve with salad and rolls.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of ground beef and pork. If you don't have baked beans on hand, feel free to substitute with canned chili or even mean beans for a twist. When frying bacon, make sure to cook it over medium heat to prevent burning and achieve crispiness. Adjust the ketchup according to your taste for sweetness and acidity.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad and warm rolls, making it a hearty meal. For a complete dinner, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a side of creamy coleslaw. If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting experience, consider serving it with hot steak subs or a side of cornbread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help maintain moisture during reheating, ensuring the dish stays soupy and flavorful.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peter'S Soupy Meat contains roughly 444 calories, with 18g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1311mg per serving (57% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon can be used as a healthier alternative. However, it may not render as much fat, so consider adding a bit of olive oil to the pan for cooking the ground beef to ensure it doesn't stick.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of this dish, you can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or diced mushrooms for a hearty texture. Use vegetarian baked beans and omit the bacon, opting for a bit of smoked paprika for flavor.
What can I serve this dish with?
This soupy meat dish is versatile and pairs well with crusty bread or rice. You might also consider serving it with a light side salad or pickled vegetables to balance the richness, enhancing your meal's overall flavor.
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).