Healthy Hearty Beef & Vegetable Stew
Nothing says comfort food like a warm bowl of homemade beef stew. This healthier version uses lean beef, plenty of vegetables, and a flavorful broth to create a satisfying meal that's both nourishing and delicious.
Recipe below in link.
Recipe
Healthy Hearty Beef & Vegetable Stew
This comforting beef and vegetable stew is packed with lean beef, tender vegetables, and a rich herb-infused broth. It's a wholesome one-pot meal that's perfect for chilly evenings and even better the next day.
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs lean beef stew meat, trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 cups baby potatoes, halved
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional for thickening)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Season the beef with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven and brown the beef in batches.
- Add onion and garlic and cook until softened.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for one minute.
- Add the broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 60 minutes.
- Add carrots, celery, potatoes, and mushrooms. Simmer for another 30 minutes.
- Stir in the green beans and cook for 10 more minutes.
- If desired, stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer until thickened.
- Remove bay leaves, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
Equipment
- Dutch oven or large soup pot
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
Notes
- This stew tastes even better the next day.
- Use sweet potatoes for a different flavor.
- Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.
Nutrition Estimate
- Calories
- 345
- Protein
- 32g
- Carbohydrates
- 21g
- Fat
- 14g
- Fiber
- 5g
- Sugar
- 6g
- Sodium
- 510mg
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredient brands, preparation methods, and serving sizes.
Why You'll Love This
- One-pot meal.
- Loaded with vegetables.
- High in protein.
- Perfect for meal prep.
- Freezer-friendly.
- Rich, comforting flavor.
Ingredient Tips
- Choose lean stew meat for a lighter dish.
- Baby potatoes hold their shape well.
- Fresh herbs can be substituted for dried.
Tips
- Brown the beef well for maximum flavor.
- Simmer slowly until the beef is fork tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Variations
- Add peas during the last 5 minutes.
- Use turkey instead of beef.
- Add barley for extra fiber.
- Mix in spinach before serving.
Substitutions
- Chicken broth can replace beef broth.
- Parsnips instead of potatoes.
- Arrowroot powder instead of cornstarch.
FAQ
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Cook on Low for 7 to 8 hours or High for about 4 hours.
Can I freeze it?
Yes. Cool completely before freezing in airtight containers.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes. Use a gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and ensure your broth is gluten-free.
This Healthy Hearty Beef & Vegetable Stew is the ultimate comfort meal that's filling, packed with vegetables, and perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep.
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