This Hearty Cowboy Stew is the perfect mix of chunky beef, tasty vegetables, and rich broth. It’s warming, filling, and great for a cozy dinner!
Making this stew is as easy as ABC! Just throw everything in one pot and let it simmer. I love how it fills the house with a delicious smell, making everyone hungry!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef stew meat: This is the heart of your stew. Look for chuck roast as it becomes tender when cooked long. If you prefer a healthier option, you could use lean cuts like sirloin or even chicken for a lighter version.
Potatoes: I like using Russet potatoes for their creamy texture. You can swap them for Yukon Gold or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor and added nutrients.
Beans: Black beans add protein and fiber. If you’re not a fan, kidney beans or even chickpeas work well too. Make sure to rinse canned beans to remove excess sodium.
Spices: Chili powder and smoked paprika bring depth to the stew. If you want more heat, add cayenne pepper, or for a milder taste, reduce the chili powder. You can replace ground cumin with coriander for a different twist.
How Can I Get the Beef Extra Tender?
The key to tender beef is the cooking time and temperature. You want to cook it low and slow. Here’s how to do it:
- Brown the beef first to develop flavor, but don’t rush it! This step is crucial.
- After adding all ingredients, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low immediately.
- Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for at least 1 to 1.5 hours. Stir occasionally to check the progress.
Doing this breaks down the tougher connective tissues in the beef, making it extra soft and delicious!
Hearty Cowboy Stew Recipe for Easy Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 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, sliced
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty stew will take you about 15 minutes for preparation, plus a cooking time of 1 to 1.5 hours to let all the flavors come together. It’s an easy but fulfilling dish, perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes to the pot and brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This helps to lock in the flavor and gives a nice color to the meat. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sautéing the Aromatics:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté it until it becomes softened and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic. Cook for another minute until you can smell the delicious aroma coming from the pot.
3. Building the Stew Base:
Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes along with their juice. Give everything a good stir to combine.
4. Adding Vegetables and Spices:
Add in the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, celery, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Simmering:
Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours. This will allow the beef to become tender and the vegetables to cook through.
6. Final Touches:
After the simmering time, stir in the black beans and corn kernels. Let the stew simmer uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, giving it a chance to heat through and allowing those flavors to meld together nicely.
7. Taste and Serve:
Before serving, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or spices as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for that extra freshness. Enjoy your hearty cowboy stew!
FAQ for Hearty Cowboy Stew
Can I Use Different Meat for This Stew?
Absolutely! While beef stew meat is traditional, you can substitute with chicken thighs for a lighter option. Just adjust the cooking time as chicken cooks faster!
Can I Make This Stew in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can! After browning the meat and sautéing the onion and garlic, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Just add the black beans and corn during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Stew?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to the freezer.
What Can I Serve with Cowboy Stew?
Cowboy stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or cornbread for soaking up the delicious broth. It can also be served over rice or with a side salad for a complete meal.
