This Hearty Cowboy Stew is perfect for cozy dinners! Packed with tender beef, tasty veggies, and hearty potatoes, it feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
It’s super simple to make—just toss your ingredients in a pot and let it simmer. Honestly, who doesn’t love a one-pot meal that fills the house with amazing smells? 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef stew meat: Choose chuck roast for its rich flavor and tenderness. You can also use brisket or round steak. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using lean beef or even turkey.
Vegetables: Classic choices are onion, carrots, and celery, but feel free to add bell peppers or mushrooms based on your taste. For a heartier stew, you can substitute sweet potatoes for regular potatoes.
Canned tomatoes: Diced tomatoes add acidity and flavor. You can swap them for crushed tomatoes or even a jar of salsa for a kick. Ensure you adjust seasonings if using flavored options!
Beef broth: Homemade broth is the best, but store-bought works fine. For a lighter version, chicken or vegetable broth can be used. Low-sodium versions are great for controlling salt.
How Do I Properly Brown the Beef for My Stew?
Browning the beef is key to building flavor in your stew. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a heavy pot or Dutch oven and heat the oil until it shimmers, being careful not to burn it.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot; brown the beef in batches if necessary. This allows for an even sear.
- Let the meat sit undisturbed for 2-3 minutes before flipping, so it gets a good crust.
- Once browned, remove the beef and let it rest. This helps maintain tenderness.
Following these tips will help you create a delicious, hearty Cowboy Stew! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Hearty Cowboy Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Hearty Cowboy Stew takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 2 to 2.5 hours to cook. The time includes browning the beef, simmering for tenderness, and allowing the vegetables to cook through. It’s the perfect recipe to start on a chilly evening while you unwind!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Beef:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the beef cubes. Brown the beef on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the browned beef and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant—this adds extra flavor to your stew.
3. Mixing the Ingredients:
Return the browned beef to the pot. Now stir in the beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all those delicious flavors!
4. Simmering the Stew:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours. This slow-cooking step is what makes the beef tender and flavorful!
5. Adding the Vegetables:
Now it’s time to add the potatoes, carrots, and celery. Cover the pot again and continue to simmer for another 30 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and cooked through.
6. Finishing Touches:
Finally, stir in the corn and green beans. Let them cook for an additional 5-10 minutes. Taste your stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is cooked and delicious, serve the stew hot in bowls, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a lovely touch. Enjoy this cozy, hearty dish!
Enjoy your cozy Hearty Cowboy Stew!
FAQ for Hearty Cowboy Stew
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! While beef stew meat is traditional, you can use pork, lamb, or even turkey for a lighter version. Just adjust the cooking times as needed, depending on the type of meat you choose.
What If I Don’t Have All the Vegetables Listed?
No worries! Cowboy stew is very versatile. You can substitute or add any vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on the vegetables you use.
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Leftover Hearty Cowboy Stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just reheat thoroughly on the stove or in the microwave before serving!
Can I Freeze This Stew?
Yes! This stew freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove.
