Description of this recipe
Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew is a hearty, comforting dish that combines simple ingredients to create a delicious meal that warms both the body and soul. This stew is perfect for busy families or anyone looking to enjoy a homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why you will love this recipe
This recipe stands out for its simplicity and robust flavor. It uses budget-friendly ingredients, making it accessible for those who want a filling meal without breaking the bank. The slow-cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a satisfying stew that can be enjoyed any day of the week. Additionally, it’s a one-pot meal, meaning less cleanup for you!
Introduction
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of stew, especially on chilly days. Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew is a classic dish that harks back to simpler times, where meals were crafted from what was available, and nothing went to waste. This recipe pays homage to that tradition, ensuring that deliciousness doesn’t have to come at a high cost. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays, this stew can simmer away while you tackle your day’s tasks. The vibrant colors and hearty textures make it as visually appealing as it is satisfying. Whether served on its own or alongside crusty bread, this stew is bound to become a staple in your home.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef, browned and drained
- 3 medium Russet potatoes, peeled and diced into large pieces
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and cut into ½-inch thick slices
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
Preparation:
Step 1: Start by preparing your ground beef. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Drain excess fat and set it aside.
Step 2: In your crock pot, combine the diced Russet potatoes, sliced carrots, and diced onion. Spread the ingredients evenly across the bottom.
Step 3: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, mix together the diced tomatoes (with their juice), beef broth, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, onion powder, and minced garlic. Stir well to combine the ingredients.
Step 4: Pour the tomato and broth mixture over the layer of vegetables in the crock pot. Then, top it off with the browned ground beef, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
Step 5: Cover the crock pot with the lid and set it to cook. You can choose to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The stew is ready when the potatoes and carrots are tender.
COOKING Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a side salad, or even over a bed of rice for a heartier meal. Leftovers taste even better the next day, so consider making a double batch!
Tips:
- For added flavor, try incorporating other vegetables such as peas, green beans, or corn based on your preference.
- Adjust the thickness of the stew by adding more or less broth according to your taste.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the broth mixture.
- This stew can be made ahead of time and reheated for a quick weeknight dinner.
- For a richer flavor, consider using homemade beef broth.
Prep Time:
- 15 minutes
Cook Time:
- 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Total Time:
- 6 hours 15 minutes to 7 hours 15 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 380 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 850mg
Conclusion
Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew is not only a budget-friendly meal choice, but it also brings comfort and satisfaction right to your table. The combination of flavorful ingredients and the slow-cooked method creates a dish that feels homemade and heartwarming. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to please everyone. Give it a try and enjoy the delightful taste of simplicity wrapped in the warmth of your crock pot!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even diced beef for a different texture and flavor.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before freezing.
3. Is it possible to make this stew vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based option like lentils or beans, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian stew.
4. Can I add different vegetables?
Certainly! Feel free to mix in other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the type of vegetables used.
5. Can I cook this stew on the stovetop instead of in a crock pot?
Yes! If you’re short on time, you can prepare this stew on the stovetop. Just combine all the ingredients in a large pot, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
