Sweet And Sour Stew
Sweet and sour stew combines tender beef with a tangy, flavorful sauce, enhanced by brown sugar and vinegar for a balanced taste. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a comforting yet zesty flavor profile that appeals to fans of savory and sweet combinations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Coat the stewing beef with flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and pepper. Brown the meat in bacon drippings.
- Combine water, barbecue sauce blended with catsup, brown sugar, vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir this mixture into the browned meat.
- Add chopped onion to the stew.
- Cover and cook over low heat for about 45 minutes.
- Add carrots and cook for an additional 45 minutes or until the meat and carrots are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker stew, consider adding a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking. You can substitute the beef with pork for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. Remember that browning the meat well enhances the flavor significantly. This dish is great served with hearty bread, like Stuffed Bread, to soak up the delicious sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Sweet And Sour Stew with a side of mashed potatoes or rice to balance the rich flavors. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the dish nicely. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with crusty bread or rolls to soak up the sauce. This stew can also be enjoyed as a filling for a Quick Dish, like a savory pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through, stirring halfway.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet And Sour Stew contains roughly 748 calories, with 13g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (27% of the Daily Value), iron (27% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2894mg per serving (126% 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 in this stew?
Yes, you can substitute the stewing beef with chicken or pork, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Chicken will cook faster, so add it later in the process to prevent drying out.
What can I add for more vegetables?
You can add a variety of vegetables such as potatoes, bell peppers, or green beans. Just make sure to cut them into uniform pieces for even cooking, and add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Is there a way to make this dish less sweet?
Absolutely! You can reduce the amount of brown sugar and vinegar to balance the sweetness. Additionally, using a barbecue sauce that is less sweet can help achieve the desired flavor without overpowering the dish.
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).