Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious? Look no further than this Chuck Wagon Stew recipe! This hearty dish is perfect for a chilly evening, a weekend gathering, or even a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. Inspired by the classic campfire staple, this updated version focuses on fresh ingredients and simple techniques to deliver a wholesome and utterly satisfying experience. Get ready to enjoy a taste of the Wild West, modernized for your kitchen!
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 6-8 people. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your needs.
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 lb stew beef, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and halved
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sear the beef: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear on all sides until browned. This step helps develop a rich flavor. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
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Sauté the vegetables: Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
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Combine ingredients: Return the beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, potatoes, green beans, thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1.5-2 hours, or until the beef is very tender. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes!
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Serve: Once the stew is cooked, remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chuck Wagon Stew:
- Slow and low is key: Low and slow cooking allows the beef to become incredibly tender and the flavors to meld beautifully. Don't rush this process!
- Use a good quality beef broth: The broth forms the base of the flavor, so using a flavorful broth makes a big difference.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, peas, or mushrooms to your stew.
- Thicken the stew (optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the stew during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Spicy Chuck Wagon Stew: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Chuck Wagon Stew with Barley: For added heartiness, add 1 cup of pearl barley along with the potatoes.
- Vegetarian Chuck Wagon Stew: Replace the beef with 1 lb of firm tofu, cubed, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 25-30g Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This hearty Chuck Wagon Stew is a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. It's a simple recipe that delivers big on flavor and is easily adaptable to your preferences. Enjoy this easy recipe and discover the joy of homemade cooking! This recipe is perfect for those looking for healthy meals, quick dinner ideas, or simply delicious dishes. It’s a surefire way to elevate your homemade cooking game!