Winter Squash - Beef Stew
A hearty winter stew combining tender beef, seasonal vegetables, and flavorful herbs, perfect for cozy gatherings and satisfying comfort food in chilly weather.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the beef in flour and brown it with the sliced onions.
- Add water and seasonings (thyme and basil).
- Simmer the mixture for 50 minutes.
- Add potatoes, sliced carrots, and peas.
- Cook for an additional 15 minutes.
- Add squash and tomato paste, then continue cooking for another 10 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine during the simmering process. You can also substitute beef chuck for the stew meat for a more tender bite. If you're short on time, use pre-cut vegetables. For an extra kick, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika. This stew is versatile; feel free to include other winter vegetables like parsnips or turnips.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty stew with crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up the delicious broth. A side salad or steamed greens can lighten the meal. It pairs beautifully with Beefy Onion Pretzels for a satisfying dinner. You can also top with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also use a microwave, heating in 1-minute intervals until hot. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Winter Squash - Beef Stew contains roughly 1648 calories, with 33g protein, 228g carbohydrates, and 71g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (202% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (148% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (119% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 772mg per serving (34% 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 different types of squash in this stew?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for a specific type of squash, you can use butternut, acorn, or even zucchini. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly; softer squashes like zucchini will require less cooking time than firmer ones like butternut.
Is it possible to make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef and onions first, then transfer to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What can I serve this stew with?
This stew is quite filling on its own, but pairing it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread enhances the meal. You might also enjoy serving it with mashed potatoes or over rice, which complements the rich broth perfectly.
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).