Preserving Beef Stew in jars is an excellent way to ensure you have a delicious, hearty meal ready whenever you need it. This method not only enhances the flavors but also allows you to enjoy homemade comfort food even on the busiest days. The process involves browning the beef to develop rich flavors, sautéing vegetables for added depth, and simmering everything together in savory beef broth before canning.

Once the stew is prepared, it is carefully ladled into sterilized jars and processed in a pressure canner. This ensures that the stew is safely preserved, retaining its nutrients and flavors. The result is a pantry full of ready-to-eat meals that can be stored for up to a year.

 

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 kg (2 lbs) beef, cubed
• 4 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 liter (4 cups) beef broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef:
   • In a large pot, brown the cubed beef over medium heat until it is well-seared on all sides.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté until the onion is softened and translucent.
3. Add the Remaining Ingredients:
   • Stir in the diced potatoes and sliced carrots. Season with salt and black pepper.
   • Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer the Stew:
   • Reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Prepare the Jars:
   • While the stew is simmering, sterilize your canning jars and lids according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Fill the Jars:
   • Ladle the hot stew into the sterilized jars, leaving 1 inch of headspace at the top of each jar.
7. Seal and Process:
   • Wipe the rims of the jars clean, place the lids on, and screw on the bands until they are fingertip-tight.
   • Process the jars in a pressure canner at 10 PSI for 75 minutes. Adjust the pressure according to your altitude if necessary.
8. Cool and Store:
   • Once the processing time is complete, allow the pressure canner to cool down naturally.
   • Carefully remove the jars and place them on a towel to cool completely.
   • Check the seals after 24 hours. Store any unsealed jars in the refrigerator and use them within a few days. Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.

Tips:

• Use high-quality beef for the best flavor and texture.
• Ensure your pressure canner is properly maintained and functioning for safe canning.
• Label your jars with the date of canning to keep track of their shelf life.

Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 75 minutes (canning) | Total Time: 2 hours

Kcal: Approximately 250 kcal per serving | Servings: Makes about 6 servings

 

Here are some additional tips and information about this recipe:

Tips for Successful Canning

1. Proper Sterilization: Ensure all jars and lids are properly sterilized before use to prevent contamination.
2. Correct Headspace: Leave the recommended 1 inch of headspace in jars to allow for expansion during processing.
3. Sealing Check: After processing, ensure the jars are sealed properly by pressing the center of the lid. It should not pop back.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

1. Herb Variations: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the stew for additional flavor.
2. Serving Ideas: Serve the stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
3. Vegetable Additions: Incorporate other vegetables such as peas or corn for variety.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store any unsealed jars in the refrigerator and consume within a few days.
• Long-Term Storage: Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a brief look at the nutritional content per serving (approximate values):

• Calories: 250 kcal per serving
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g

Possible Questions About This Recipe

1. Can I use other types of meat?
   • Yes, you can substitute the beef with pork or chicken if preferred.
2. What if I don’t have a pressure canner?
   • Unfortunately, low-acid foods like beef stew must be processed in a pressure canner to ensure safety.
3. Can I add more vegetables to the stew?
   • Yes, feel free to add more vegetables like peas, corn, or bell peppers.
4. How do I reheat the stew?
   • Simply open a jar and heat the stew in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
5. What if my jars didn’t seal properly?
   • Store the unsealed jars in the refrigerator and consume within a few days.
6. Can I make this stew spicy?
   • Yes, add some chili flakes or hot sauce to the stew for a spicy kick.
7. How do I know if the stew has spoiled?
   • If the jar lid is bulging, the seal is broken, or the contents have an off smell, discard the stew.
8. Can I double the recipe?
   • Yes, you can double or triple the recipe, but ensure you have enough jars and canning space.
9. What is the purpose of the headspace in jars?
   • Headspace allows for food expansion and proper sealing during processing.
10. How long does the stew last once opened?
    • Once opened, store in the refrigerator and consume within 3-5 days.

Conclusion

Enjoy making and preserving this Hearty Beef Stew. It’s a perfect way to ensure you always have a delicious and comforting meal ready to enjoy!