Hearty Grandma's Beef & Vegetable Stew
This Hearty Grandma's Beef & Vegetable Stew is a cherished family recipe that showcases the love and warmth of home-cooked meals. Rooted in a tradition where no ingredient goes to waste, this stew combines tender chunks of beef or pork with a medley of vibrant vegetables, all simmered to perfection. The rich, savory broth is flavored with tomatoes and a hint of your grandmother's special touch. Ideal for feeding a crowd, this stew not only nourishes but also evokes fond memories of bustling family gatherings and the delightful aroma that filled Grandma's kitchen. Perfect for chilly days, this stew will warm your heart and soul.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
beef roast or pork roast
2-3 lb (trimmed of excess fat and cut into chunks)
potatoes
3-4 (peeled and cubed)
celery
4-5 stalks (cubed)
carrots
3-4 (cut into chunks)
cabbage
1/2 head (cored and cut into chunks)
onion
1 (cut into chunks)
whole tomatoes or diced tomatoes
1 (28 ounce) can (undrained)
salt
to taste
pepper
to taste
tomato paste (optional)
1 can (for a thicker stew)
Instructions
1
In a large pot, cover the beef roast or pork roast with enough water to completely submerge it. Bring the water to a gentle boil and reduce to a simmer.
2
Cook the meat for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it becomes fork-tender. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, add a few slices of onion and celery to infuse the broth with extra flavor.
3
Once the meat is tender, carefully remove it from the pot and set aside to cool slightly. When cool enough to handle, shred or chop the meat into bite-sized pieces.
4
In the same pot, add the prepared potatoes, celery, carrots, cabbage, and onion, all cut into chunks. Cook the vegetables for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender.
5
Add the can of whole or diced tomatoes to the pot, stirring well to combine. Then, return the shredded meat back into the soup.
6
Allow the stew to simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes to let all the flavors meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7
If you prefer a thicker stew, consider adding a can of tomato paste at this stage and stir it well.
8
Serve hot, enjoy with some crusty bread, and savor the taste of tradition.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this stew recipe?
The recipe is called Hearty Grandma's Beef & Vegetable Stew.
What types of meat can be used in this recipe?
You can use either a beef roast or a pork roast for this stew.
How long should the meat be cooked initially?
The meat should be simmered for about 1.5 to 2 hours until it is fork-tender.
What vegetables are included in Grandma's Beef & Vegetable Stew?
The vegetables include potatoes, celery, carrots, cabbage, and onion.
How should the potatoes be prepared?
The potatoes should be peeled and cubed before being added to the pot.
How much cabbage is required for this recipe?
You will need 1/2 head of cabbage, cored and cut into chunks.
Can I use diced tomatoes instead of whole tomatoes?
Yes, you can use one 28-ounce can of either whole tomatoes or diced tomatoes.
Should the canned tomatoes be drained?
No, the tomatoes should be used undrained to provide liquid and flavor.
How can I make the stew thicker?
To achieve a thicker consistency, you can add a can of tomato paste during the final simmering stage.
When should I add onion and celery slices to the broth?
Add a few slices of onion and celery during the last 30 minutes of the meat's cooking time to infuse the broth.
How many carrots are needed?
The recipe calls for 3 to 4 carrots, cut into chunks.
How many stalks of celery are used for the vegetable mix?
You should use 4 to 5 stalks of cubed celery.
What is the recommended size for the meat chunks?
The meat should be trimmed of excess fat and cut into bite-sized chunks.
How long do the vegetables need to cook?
The vegetables should cook for about 20 to 25 minutes until they are tender.
What is the final simmering time after all ingredients are combined?
The stew should simmer for an additional 8 to 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
How much meat is needed for this stew?
The recipe requires 2 to 3 pounds of beef or pork roast.
What seasonings are used in this recipe?
The stew is seasoned with salt and pepper to taste.
What should be served with this stew?
It is recommended to serve the stew hot with some crusty bread.
What is the preparation method for the meat after it is cooked?
Once tender and cooled slightly, the meat should be shredded or chopped into bite-sized pieces.
How many potatoes should I use?
Use 3 to 4 potatoes for this recipe.
Is this recipe suitable for a crowd?
Yes, it is described as an ideal meal for feeding a crowd and family gatherings.
What kind of pot is needed for this recipe?
A large pot is required to accommodate the meat, water, and various vegetables.
How do I prepare the onion for the main vegetable mix?
One onion should be cut into chunks and added with the other vegetables.
Is there a specific way to prepare the cabbage?
Yes, the cabbage should be cored and then cut into chunks.
What is the total number of ingredients in this recipe?
There are 10 main ingredients listed in the recipe.
Is this recipe considered comfort food?
Yes, it is tagged as comfort food and a hearty family recipe.
Can I use pork instead of beef roast?
Yes, a pork roast is a perfectly suitable substitute for beef in this stew.
What provides the rich savory broth flavor?
The broth is flavored by the meat juices, tomatoes, and the infusion of onion and celery.
Is the tomato paste optional?
Yes, the tomato paste is optional and only necessary if you prefer a thicker stew.
What temperature should the stew be served at?
The stew should be served hot to best enjoy its warming qualities.