Shepherd'S Stew

Cook: 240 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

Hearty shepherd's stew combines tender beef, vegetables, and a savory tomato base, slow-cooked for rich flavors. Perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.

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Ingredients

  • 2 lb. stew beef, cut in 1 1/2-inch cubes
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 1 stalk celery
  • 6 to 8 carrots, in chunks
  • 2 tsp. salt
  • 2 Tbsp. sugar
  • 2 Tbsp. tapioca
  • 2 c. tomato juice
  • 4 to 6 medium potatoes, quartered
  • 1/2 c. sliced mushrooms (optional)

Instructions

  1. Place all ingredients in a large casserole dish or Dutch oven in the order given.
  2. Cover tightly and bake in a 250°F (120°C) oven for 4 hours.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider browning the stew beef in a skillet before adding it to the casserole dish. If you don’t have tapioca, cornstarch can be used as a thickener instead. For a heartier texture, add green beans or peas. This shepherd's stew can also benefit from a splash of Worcestershire sauce for added depth.

Serving Suggestions

This shepherd's stew is perfect served with crusty bread or a side salad to balance the hearty flavors. A dollop of sour cream on top can add a nice creaminess. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a light dessert like fruit salad or a slice of pie. It pairs beautifully with Easy Does It Spaghetti(Crock-Pot) for a comforting dinner.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stew in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, but be sure to cover them to prevent drying out.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Shepherd'S Stew contains roughly 921 calories, with 28g protein, 141g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (99% of the Daily Value), protein (55% of the Daily Value), and potassium (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 962mg per serving (42% of the Daily Value).

921 kcal 46% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 27.6g 55% DV
Total Fat 28.3g 36% DV
Carbs 140.7g 51% DV
Fiber 9.8g 35% DV
Sugar 5.6g 11% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 961.6mg 42% DV
Potassium 2527.5mg 54% DV
Cholesterol 48mg 16% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 130.1mcg 14% DV
Vitamin C 39mg 43% DV
Vitamin D 19.7mcg 99% DV
Calcium 60.8mg 5% DV
Iron 4.7mg 26% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Low-fat

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 different types of meat for this stew?

Yes, you can substitute the stew beef with lamb or even chicken for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken cooks faster than beef. If using lamb, consider adding herbs like rosemary to enhance the dish.

What can I do if the stew is too thick?

If you find the stew is thicker than desired, simply stir in some extra tomato juice or beef broth until you reach your preferred consistency. This will also enhance the flavor. Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed after adding more liquid.

Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Absolutely! This shepherd's stew can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen overnight. Just reheat gently before serving. It’s a great option for meal prep and can save you time on busy days.

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).

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