"The Best Stew" By Bernadette
A hearty beef stew infused with savory flavors, onions, garlic, and a touch of red wine, perfect for comforting family dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the stewing beef in butter, then remove and set aside.
- Brown the onions in the same pan.
- Add the browned meat, minced garlic, onions, bouillon cube, water, catsup, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar to a pot.
- Cook for 1 1/2 hours.
- Add red wine and vegetables, then cook for an additional 30 minutes.
- Serve as is or over buttered noodles, sprinkled with poppy seed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the stewing beef in red wine overnight. If you don’t have red wine, balsamic vinegar can be a good substitute. You can also add root vegetables like carrots or potatoes for heartiness. If you prefer a thicker stew, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
This stew is best served hot, either on its own or over buttered noodles for added comfort. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can enhance the dish. For a complete meal, pair it with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth. It also pairs beautifully with Duchess Meat Loaf Pie for a hearty feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the stew on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in a covered bowl, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. If the stew thickens, add a splash of water to loosen it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "The Best Stew" By Bernadette contains roughly 568 calories, with 16g protein, 119g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (200% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2048mg per serving (89% 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?
Absolutely! While stewing beef is ideal for its tenderness when cooked slowly, you can use chuck roast or even pork. Just ensure the meat is cut into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
What vegetables can I add to the stew?
Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables. Carrots, potatoes, and peas work well. Add them after the initial cooking time to prevent them from becoming mushy. You can also incorporate green beans or corn for additional flavor.
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, this stew adapts well to a slow cooker! After browning the meat and onions, transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the red wine in the last hour for the best flavor.
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).