This Hearty Cowboy Stew is the perfect dish for chilly evenings! Packed with tender beef, vibrant veggies, and a rich broth, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl.
It’s my go-to comfort food when the weather turns cold. I love to serve it with warm bread for dipping—trust me, you won’t want to miss a single drop! 🥖
Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is great for stews because it becomes tender and flavorful during cooking. If you need a substitute, try stew meat or brisket, but avoid lean cuts as they won’t give the same result.
Vegetable Oil: You can use olive oil or canola oil if you prefer. I’ve used butter for added flavor, but be cautious with heating it as it burns faster than oil.
Potatoes: Yukon Gold or russet potatoes work best for their creamy texture. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, try substituting with cauliflower. Just note, cooking time might be shorter.
Beans: Kidney beans add heartiness, but you can swap them for black beans or pinto beans. Just ensure they’re well-drained and rinsed!
Spices: Adjust the chili powder, smoked paprika, and cumin to your taste. If you want a kick, add cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño.
How Can I Make Sure My Beef Is Tender?
Tender beef is the star of this stew! To achieve this, browning the meat properly is essential. Here’s how:
- Heat the pot well before adding the beef. This helps to create a good sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot; cook in batches if necessary. This keeps the meat from steaming.
- Allow the beef to simmer low and slow. This helps break down tough connective tissues.
- Check for doneness, and if it’s still tough, let it simmer longer.
By following these tips, you’ll be rewarded with tender beef that’s packed with flavor!
Hearty Cowboy Stew Recipe for Cozy Nights
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 1.5 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy stew will take about 30 minutes for preparation and 1.5 hours for cooking, totaling around 2 hours. It’s the perfect dish to simmer while you unwind, creating a rich, hearty meal that fills your home with delicious aromas!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes, making sure they don’t overcrowd the pot. Brown them on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, letting those wonderful aromas fill your kitchen.
3. Add the Liquid Ingredients:
Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and water, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot, letting it simmer for about 1 hour. This slow simmer will make the beef incredibly tender!
4. Add the Veggies:
After an hour, it’s time to add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and celery. Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, corn, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. This is where the stew gets its hearty flavor!
5. Final Simmer:
Cover the pot again and let it simmer for another 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and have soaked up all the delicious flavors. Feel free to taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is ready, ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. It’s perfect served hot, alongside warm bread or cornbread. Enjoy this comforting meal on a cozy night!
FAQ for Hearty Cowboy Stew
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat?
Absolutely! While beef chuck is ideal for stews due to its tenderness when cooked, you can also use boneless short ribs or even a mix of beef cuts. Just ensure they are suitable for slow cooking.
How Can I Make This Stew Ahead of Time?
You can prepare this stew a day in advance! Simply follow the recipe, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove before serving. The flavors will deepen overnight!
What Should I Serve with Cowboy Stew?
This stew pairs wonderfully with warm crusty bread, cornbread, or a side salad. You can also serve it over rice or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover stew can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it in containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
