Savory Beef Stew
Savory Beef Stew is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for chilly evenings. With tender chunks of beef and a medley of vegetables simmered in a rich broth, this stew offers a delightful balance of flavors. Ideal for family gatherings or a cozy dinner, it warms the soul.
Ingredients
- 2 lb. stewing beef ⓘ
- 1/4 c. oil ⓘ
- 1 1/2 c. chopped onions ⓘ
- 1 lb. can tomatoes ⓘ
- 3 Tbsp. quick cook tapioca ⓘ
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 can condensed beef broth or 2 bouillon cubes dissolved in 1 1/3 c. water
- 1 Tbsp. parsley flakes ⓘ
- 1 bay leaf ⓘ
- 6 medium carrots ⓘ
- 3 medium potatoes ⓘ
- 1/2 c. sliced celery ⓘ
- sour cream (if desired) ⓘ
Instructions
- Brown beef in oil.
- Add onions, tomatoes, tapioca, broth, parsley flakes, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add vegetables and pour into a roasting pan; cover.
- Bake at 350° for 3 hours or until meat is tender.
- Top with sour cream, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, sear the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. You can substitute the stewing beef with chuck roast or brisket for a different texture. If you prefer a thicker stew, add a bit of cornstarch mixed with cold water towards the end of cooking. Ensure to adjust the seasoning according to taste, especially if using different broth types like Basic Beef Broth.
Serving Suggestions
This savory beef stew is perfect served with crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes. It pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed green vegetables to balance the richness. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside American recipes like Easy Stroganoff or a warm bowl of Tomato Bisque.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the stew on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick. It can also be reheated in the microwave, but stir occasionally for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Savory Beef Stew contains roughly 1078 calories, with 17g protein, 160g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (152% of the Daily Value), potassium (69% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (66% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 524mg per serving (23% 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 prepare this stew in a slow cooker. Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the meat is tender.
What vegetables can I add to this stew?
Feel free to customize the vegetables in this stew. You can add peas, green beans, or parsnips for added flavor and nutrition. Just ensure they are added during the last hour of cooking to maintain their texture.
How can I make this stew gluten-free?
To make this stew gluten-free, use gluten-free tapioca or a cornstarch slurry instead of regular tapioca. Ensure that your beef broth or bouillon cubes are labeled gluten-free as well, and check all other ingredients for hidden gluten sources.
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).