When it comes to comfort food, there’s nothing quite as fulfilling as a warm, hearty bowl of stew. Stews are not only versatile but also perfect for cozy family dinners or a big gathering of friends. They are filled with flavors that evolve and deepen the longer they cook, creating a perfect balance between the savory meat and fresh vegetables. One such classic stew is this Hearty Vegetable and Beef Stew. It’s a satisfying and filling dish made with an array of hearty vegetables and flavorful beef, all simmered together to create a rich and savory broth.
This stew recipe incorporates an array of wholesome ingredients: tender ground beef, fresh tomatoes, hearty lima beans, green beans, okra, and red potatoes, along with a delicious combination of spices to elevate the flavor profile. The inclusion of these vegetables ensures that each bite is a delightful blend of textures and tastes. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a large pot for meal prep, this stew is perfect for a hearty meal.
What makes this recipe particularly special is its balance of nutrients. Packed with protein from the beef and a variety of vegetables, it’s a one-pot meal that provides a complete meal in one dish. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a great way to sneak in your daily servings of vegetables. With a touch of garlic, onion, and spices, it’s a dish that tastes like it’s been simmering all day, yet it’s easy to make and requires only a few steps.
This stew is perfect for any season, but especially as the weather cools down, nothing beats a hot bowl of stew that warms you up from the inside. Let’s dive into the details of this recipe and why it’s a timeless family favorite.
Why This Recipe is Timeless
Hearty Vegetable and Beef Stew stands the test of time because it combines the goodness of simple, fresh ingredients with a cooking process that enhances the flavors. It’s a dish that transcends generations, enjoyed by many in different variations over the years. What makes this recipe timeless is its versatility, simplicity, and nourishing qualities. It’s a perfect example of how hearty, healthy meals don’t have to be complicated.
This dish has been a household staple for generations, especially during colder months when you crave a comforting meal. The vegetables used are not only affordable but also incredibly nutritious. Combining these vegetables with tender ground beef creates a balance of flavors and textures that are incredibly satisfying. The addition of chicken stock and tomato paste provides a rich and savory base that brings everything together, making it an irresistible dish that will become a favorite in any kitchen.
Moreover, this recipe is adaptable. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have in your kitchen. Whether you want to use fresh or frozen vegetables, or experiment with different types of beans or potatoes, this stew is forgiving and flexible, allowing you to tailor it to your taste. Whether you choose to make it with lean beef or add in additional vegetables, this recipe will always deliver.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 4 cups chopped tomatoes
- 2 cups lima beans
- 2 cups chopped okra
- 2 cups chopped red potatoes
- 1 cup corn
- 1 cup green beans
- ½ cup chopped carrots
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ tablespoon garlic powder
- ½ tablespoon celery salt
- ½ tablespoon onion powder
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed (or more to taste)
- 3 tablespoons butter
Prep Time
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
Note: The nutrition content may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by preparing your vegetables. Chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces, peel and chop the carrots, chop the red potatoes, and slice the okra into small rounds. If you’re using fresh green beans, chop them into small pieces as well. This is the most time-consuming step, but it’s important to make sure everything is chopped evenly so that all the vegetables cook uniformly.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
In a large pot, heat the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the beef and return it to the pot. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for another 3 minutes until the onions are softened and fragrant.
3. Add the Tomato Paste and Spices
Next, stir in the tomato paste and spices: garlic powder, onion powder, and celery salt. This will help to deepen the flavor of the stew. Allow the tomato paste to cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, to help it caramelize slightly and bring out its richness.
4. Add the Stock and Vegetables
Pour in the chicken stock and bring the mixture to a simmer. Once it’s simmering, add the chopped tomatoes, lima beans, okra, corn, carrots, and green beans. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring everything to a gentle boil and then reduce the heat to low to allow it to simmer.
5. Simmer and Cook
Cover the pot with a lid and let the stew cook for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Stir occasionally to ensure everything is cooking evenly. After the vegetables are tender and the stew has thickened to your liking, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Once the stew is ready, remove it from the heat. Ladle the hearty vegetable and beef stew into bowls and serve hot. You can serve it with a slice of warm, crusty bread to soak up all the delicious broth or a side salad for extra freshness.
Tips for Making the Perfect Beef Stew
- Brown the Ground Beef Properly: Take the time to cook the ground beef until it’s nicely browned. This step helps to develop deeper, richer flavors and adds a wonderful base to the stew.
- Use Fresh Vegetables: For the best flavor and texture, try to use fresh vegetables whenever possible. If you’re in a pinch, frozen vegetables can also work, but fresh ingredients will enhance the overall dish.
- Don’t Rush the Simmering Time: Let the stew simmer for at least 45 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop. The longer it simmers, the richer and more complex the flavor will be.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Every palate is different, so taste your stew as it cooks and adjust the seasoning. If you like a spicier stew, add a pinch of cayenne or more garlic. If you prefer a more savory flavor, a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce can add depth.
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to get creative with your vegetables. You can add parsnips, celery, or even squash to make the stew heartier and more flavorful. The beauty of this stew is its flexibility!
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Simply reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Freezing: This stew freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and heat gently on the stove.
FAQS
1. Can I use beef stew meat instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute beef stew meat. If you use stew meat, be sure to brown it properly and simmer it longer to tenderize the meat. Cube the meat into bite-sized pieces and cook it with the onions and garlic before adding the stock and vegetables.
2. Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic in a pan, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
3. What can I serve this stew with?
This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, cornbread, or a light green salad. You could also serve it with rice or quinoa for a more filling meal.
4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein like lentils, tofu, or tempeh. You can also skip the chicken stock and use vegetable broth for a fully vegetarian version.
Conclusion
This Hearty Vegetable and Beef Stew is a classic comfort food that never fails to impress. With its savory broth, tender ground beef, and a wide array of nutritious vegetables, it’s a complete meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized to suit your personal preferences. Whether you’re looking for a cozy family dinner or preparing meals for the week ahead, this stew is a timeless dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, next time you’re craving something hearty, give this recipe a try—it’s comfort in a bowl, and it’s a dish that will never go out of style.