Uncle Charlie'S Drunkard'S Stew
Uncle Charlie's Drunkard's Stew is a hearty, comforting dish featuring tender beef cubes simmered with vegetables in a flavorful sherry-infused gravy. Its rich aroma and robust taste make it perfect for family dinners and gatherings, offering a warm, satisfying experience for meat lovers and stew enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the stew beef cubes in bacon drippings or vegetable oil.
- Add the remaining ingredients: mushroom soup, water, potatoes, carrots, onions, salt, pepper, and sherry.
- Combine well and transfer to an oven-safe dish.
- Bake in the oven at 350°F for 2 to 3 hours, or at 275°F for 5 hours, until the meat is tender and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding garlic or herbs such as thyme or rosemary. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute the sherry with white wine or omit it altogether. For a thicker stew, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir into the stew before baking. This hearty dish is perfect for a cozy dinner and is reminiscent of classic American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Uncle Charlie's Drunkard's Stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal. A side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can complement the richness of the stew. This dish pairs beautifully with Lela's Spaghetti Casserole for a comforting dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to loosen the consistency. This dish also freezes well; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Uncle Charlie'S Drunkard'S Stew contains roughly 918 calories, with 17g protein, 141g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (191% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (104% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (80% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1792mg per serving (78% 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 slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef as instructed, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the meat is tender.
What can I substitute for mushroom soup?
If you don't have mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup instead. Alternatively, you can make a homemade version using sautéed mushrooms, cream, and broth to maintain the dish's creamy texture.
Is there a way to make this stew spicier?
Absolutely! To add some heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce into the stew. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference for a customized kick.
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).