Stove-Top Beef Stew
A hearty and comforting stove-top beef stew featuring tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and rich broth, perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large kettle, melt the margarine and sauté one coarsely chopped onion and the beef pieces until browned on all sides.
- Add the beef broth, bay leaf, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Add the remaining three onions (peeled but whole), and the chunks of carrots and potatoes.
- Pour in water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for at least two hours, or longer for more flavor.
- Add more water as needed to keep the broth lively.
- Serve in soup bowls with plenty of broth.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Substitute olive oil for margarine if desired, and feel free to add garlic or herbs like thyme for added depth. If you want to increase the vegetable content, add peas or green beans toward the end of cooking. This stew can also be thickened with a cornstarch slurry if a heartier consistency is preferred.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty beef stew in deep bowls, ensuring each serving has plenty of broth. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh herb garnish. This dish is also a great option for meal prep, as it tastes even better the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the stew to 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, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the stew is too thick.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stove-Top Beef Stew contains roughly 1536 calories, with 17g protein, 150g carbohydrates, and 99g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (106% of the Daily Value), potassium (81% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (67% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1574mg per serving (68% 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 type of meat for this stew?
Yes, you can substitute stewing beef with other cuts like chuck roast or brisket. Just ensure the meat is cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the cut used.
How can I make this stew gluten-free?
To make this beef stew gluten-free, ensure that your beef broth is labeled gluten-free. Additionally, you can use cornstarch or arrowroot powder instead of flour if you decide to thicken the stew. Always check the labels on condiments and seasonings for hidden gluten.
Can I cook this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can brown the beef and onions as instructed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time.
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).