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If you are craving a cozy meal that fills both your belly and heart, this Hearty Vegetable-Meat Stew Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with tender chunks of meat, vibrant fresh vegetables, and rich, savory broth, this stew combines comfort and nutrition in every spoonful. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, perfect for family dinners or any time you want to slow down and savor something truly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make this stew is a breeze because all the ingredients are everyday staples, each bringing something special to the pot. From the rich beef to the medley of colorful vegetables, every item plays a key role in layering flavor and texture that will keep you coming back for more.
- 1 lb beef stew meat: The hearty protein that forms the stew’s filling base, you can swap it for lamb or chicken for a different twist.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing and browning the meat to develop deep, savory notes.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth as it softens in the pot.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Gives an aromatic punch that wakes up the whole dish.
- 3 medium carrots, sliced: Brings natural sweetness and a lovely orange pop of color.
- 3 medium potatoes, diced: Provides heartiness and a comforting texture that soaks up the stew flavors.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Adds subtle earthiness and crunch.
- 1 can diced tomatoes with juice (14.5 oz): Injects a tangy brightness and rich color.
- 4 cups beef or chicken broth: Creates the savory liquid base that melds all the ingredients together.
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut: For fresh, crisp bursts of green that balance the stew.
- 1/2 cup frozen peas: Sweet little gems that add pop and color late in cooking.
- 1/2 cup corn kernels: Whether fresh, canned, or frozen, corn gives a touch of natural sweetness and chew.
- 2 bay leaves: Infuse a subtle, herbal depth while simmering.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy, slightly minty undertone that’s classic in stews.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: For warmth, gentle smokiness, and beautiful color.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that bring out all the vibrant flavors in the pot.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: A bright, fresh garnish to finish the dish with a burst of green.
How to Make Hearty Vegetable-Meat Stew Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Season your beef stew meat generously with salt and pepper for maximum flavor. Brown the meat in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding, cooking each piece until it’s beautifully caramelized on all sides, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is crucial because browning seals in juices and creates the rich base flavor your stew needs. Once browned, set the meat aside while you prepare the veggies.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Leave a little oil in the pot or add a touch more if it looks dry. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring frequently until softened and fragrant, roughly 3 minutes. Then add the carrots, potatoes, and celery, continuing to cook for another 5 minutes so the vegetables start to develop their natural sweetness. This builds layers of flavor that make this stew truly “hearty.”
Step 3: Add Liquids and Simmer
Return the browned meat to the pot along with the diced tomatoes including their juice, broth, and bay leaves. Sprinkle in the dried thyme and paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir, then bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook slowly for 45 minutes to an hour. The low and slow simmer is what makes the meat tender and allows all the flavors to meld into delicious harmony.
Step 4: Add Green Beans, Peas, and Corn
Ten to fifteen minutes before your stew is ready, stir in the green beans, peas, and corn kernels. These quick-cooking vegetables add freshness, color, and pleasant textures that brighten up the dish. Continue simmering until these veggies are tender but not mushy—perfectly balanced with the tender meat and root veggies.
Step 5: Final Touches and Serve
Remove the bay leaves and taste to adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top to add a pop of green and a burst of freshness. Serve the stew hot, ideally with rustic crusty bread or a scoop of plain rice to soak up every bit of this flavorful broth. You’ll be amazed how this simple recipe delivers so much satisfying comfort in one bowl.
How to Serve Hearty Vegetable-Meat Stew Recipe
Garnishes
An uncomplicated garnish like freshly chopped parsley adds a refreshing aroma and color contrast that instantly makes the stew look and taste more vibrant. For a cozy touch, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkling of grated cheese also pairs beautifully, melting slightly into the warm stew.
Side Dishes
Serve this hearty vegetable-meat stew alongside thick slices of crusty bread that are perfect for dipping in the rich broth. Alternatively, a simple bowl of steamed rice or buttered egg noodles works wonderfully, giving you more ways to enjoy this flavorful liquid gold. For a lighter balance, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the stew nicely.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the stew in a hollowed-out bread bowl—this not only keeps the stew warm but adds an edible container that’s delicious on its own. You can also ladle the stew over buttery mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for an indulgent meal that feels extra special. Another idea is to garnish with toasted nuts or seeds for crunch that contrasts with the tender ingredients.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This stew actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen and mingle overnight. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the stew to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain freshness and texture.
Freezing
If you want to keep this Hearty Vegetable-Meat Stew Recipe handy for busy days, it freezes beautifully. Transfer cooled stew into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When freezing, it’s best to leave out delicate veggies like peas and corn and add them fresh when reheating to keep their texture bright.
Reheating
Reheat your stew gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the stew thickens too much in the fridge or freezer, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. Avoid microwaving at high temperatures to prevent overcooking the veggies and meat.
FAQs
Can I use ground meat instead of stew beef?
Absolutely! Ground beef, chicken, or lamb will work well in this Hearty Vegetable-Meat Stew Recipe. Just brown it as usual and adjust cooking times slightly since ground meat cooks faster than chunks.
Is it possible to make this stew vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the meat and boost the veggies or add hearty legumes like lentils or beans for protein. Using vegetable broth keeps the flavor rich and satisfying.
What herbs and spices can I experiment with?
Feel free to swap thyme for rosemary or add a pinch of cumin or chili flakes for warmth. Bay leaves and paprika are classics, but this recipe is very adaptable to your favorite seasonings.
How thick should the stew be?
The stew should be thick enough to coat a spoon but still silky and broth-like—not too watery or dry. Adjust by simmering uncovered to thicken or adding extra broth to loosen as needed.
Can I prepare this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes! After browning the meat and sautéing veggies, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add quick-cooking vegetables like peas and corn in the last 30 minutes to keep them fresh and vibrant.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a warm bowl of this Hearty Vegetable-Meat Stew Recipe. It’s a timeless dish that brings comfort, nourishment, and smiles around the table every time. Whether you’re cooking it for a busy weeknight or a leisurely weekend, I promise it will become a cherished favorite. Go ahead and dive in—you deserve that wonderful feeling of cozy satisfaction.
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Hearty Vegetable-Meat Stew Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Stew
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and hearty vegetable-meat stew packed with tender meat, colorful vegetables, and rich flavors. Perfect for cozy dinners, this stew simmers slowly to meld savory spices, fresh herbs, and wholesome ingredients into a satisfying bowl of warmth.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 lb (450g) beef stew meat (or ground beef, lamb, or chicken)
Vegetables
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into pieces
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 4 cups beef or chicken broth (or water)
Oils and Spices
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the meat with salt and pepper, then add it to the pot. Brown the meat on all sides for about 5-7 minutes until nicely seared. Remove the browned meat and set it aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add a little more olive oil if needed. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Then add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and chopped celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, for another 5 minutes to start softening the vegetables.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Return the browned meat to the pot. Add the can of diced tomatoes with their juice, beef or chicken broth, and bay leaves. Stir in dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the meat is tender and the vegetables are well cooked.
- Add Green Beans, Peas, and Corn: About 10-15 minutes before the stew is ready to serve, stir in the green beans, frozen peas, and corn kernels. Continue to simmer uncovered or partially covered until these vegetables are tender yet still vibrant in color.
- Serve: Remove the bay leaves and taste the stew to adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot. The stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread or over rice for a hearty meal.
Notes
- You can substitute the beef stew meat with ground beef, lamb, or chicken depending on your preference.
- Feel free to swap out vegetables according to seasonality or what you have on hand.
- Simmering time can be adjusted based on the tenderness of your meat; tougher cuts may require additional time.
- For a thicker stew, mash a few potatoes against the side of the pot or add a slurry of cornstarch and water toward the end of cooking.
- This stew keeps well and often tastes even better the next day after flavors meld further.
