Poor Man'S Stew
A hearty and budget-friendly stew packed with tender beef, vegetables, and rich tomato flavors. Perfect for slow-cooking and comforting family dinners, this dish offers a simple yet satisfying meal that warms the soul and feeds a crowd with minimal effort and ingredients.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put all ingredients into a casserole dish.
- Bake at 275°F (135°C) for 5 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the stewing beef in a skillet before adding it to the casserole dish. If you don't have tomato soup, you can substitute with crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes mixed with a bit of seasoning. You can also add other vegetables like celery or bell peppers for extra nutrition. If you prefer a thicker stew, reduce the amount of water added.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. You can also serve it over rice or with mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful broth. For a comforting twist, consider serving it alongside Beefy Jalapeno Corn Bread to complement the dish's flavors.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the stew cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then heat in a pot over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if it has thickened.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Poor Man'S Stew contains roughly 558 calories, with 11g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (96% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (59% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1307mg per serving (57% 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 other types of meat in this stew?
Yes, you can substitute the stewing beef with other meats such as chicken or pork. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken may require less time when baking. Ensure the meat is tender and properly cooked before serving.
What can I add to make the stew more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, you can add herbs like thyme or rosemary. A splash of Worcestershire sauce or a bay leaf can also deepen the taste. For a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
Is it possible to make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker by combining all ingredients in the slow cooker and cooking on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method will yield tender meat and a flavorful stew.
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).