This Cowboy Stew is a warm and hearty dish filled with tender beef, potatoes, and colorful veggies. It’s like a big hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly nights!
I love how this stew fills the kitchen with amazing smells. Plus, it’s so easy to make—just throw everything into a pot and let it simmer. Yum! 🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: I recommend using chuck roast cut into cubes. It becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked. If you prefer a leaner option, sirloin works too. For a vegetarian twist, try using hearty lentils or mushrooms instead.
Vegetables: Onions and garlic add depth to the stew. Feel free to swap in shallots for a milder taste. Don’t have celery? Zucchini or green beans can add a nice crunch as a substitute.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are great, but Yukon Golds add creaminess. You can also use sweet potatoes for a slightly different flavor. If you’re avoiding carbs, cauliflower works well!
Spices: Smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder give it a great kick. If you prefer milder spices, reduce the chili powder or even use Italian seasoning for a different twist.
How Do I Make Sure the Beef Is Tender?
Cooking the beef properly is essential for tenderness in your Cowboy Stew. Here’s how to do it:
- Brown the meat in batches to give pieces space—this caramelizes and locks in flavors.
- After browning, simmer the stew on low heat. Cooking slowly allows the connective tissue in the beef to break down. Aim for at least 1 hour initially, then add your veggies.
- Consider adding a splash of wine or a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.
Hearty Cowboy Stew for Cozy Nights
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), chopped
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 2 bay leaves
Spices and Seasoning:
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting stew requires about 30 minutes for preparation and a total of 1 hour and 30 minutes for cooking time. It’s a great dish to make while you’re doing other things around the house!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the beef on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes, including their juices. Stir in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, black pepper, salt, and bay leaves. Mix everything well to combine the flavors.
4. Simmer the Stew:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This helps tenderize the beef and develop flavor.
5. Add Vegetables:
After 1 hour, add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, chopped celery, and bell pepper to the pot. Continue to simmer, covered, for another 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Final Touches:
Stir in the corn kernels and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove the bay leaves and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hearty cowboy stew into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice for a delicious and filling meal on a cozy night!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Hearty Cowboy Stew
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While beef stew meat is traditional, you can substitute it with pork, lamb, or even chicken. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly, as chicken cooks faster than beef.
How Can I Make This Stew Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, lentils, or a mix of beans. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and cut down on the cooking time since vegetables will cook more quickly.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months; just make sure to let them cool completely before freezing!
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like peas, zucchini, or green beans. Just ensure that vegetables that cook faster are added towards the end of the cooking time to maintain their texture.
