Spiced Stew
A hearty spiced beef stew featuring tender chunks of chuck, aromatic cinnamon, and savory onions, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the beef in hot shortening.
- Add chopped onions and enough water to nearly cover the meat.
- Mix sugar and cinnamon with lemon juice and add to the pot along with bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the meat is tender, about 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider marinating the beef overnight with the spices. If you don't have bay leaves, try using thyme for a different herbal note. You can substitute the shortening with olive oil for a healthier option. If you prefer a thicker stew, add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spiced stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or over a bed of rice to soak up the flavorful broth. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. Browse more beef recipes for additional inspiration.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spiced stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. This dish also freezes well; just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spiced Stew contains roughly 1274 calories, with 11g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 113g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (92% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 620mg per serving (27% 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 a different cut of beef?
Yes, while chuck is ideal for stews due to its balance of tenderness and flavor, you can use other cuts like brisket or round. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut.
Is it possible to make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef and onions in a skillet first, then transfer them to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the meat is tender.
What if I want to add vegetables?
You can certainly add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or peas to the stew. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them during the last hour of cooking to ensure they retain their texture.
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).