Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Homestyle Beef Stew?
Savory Homestyle Beef Stew is a hearty, comforting dish made from scratch with tender beef, carrots, potatoes, and peas in a rich gravy.
What kind of beef should I use for this recipe?
You can use 1.5 lbs of sirloin steaks or standard beef stew meat, cubed into bite-sized pieces.
Can I use flour instead of Bisquick for coating?
Yes, you can use either 0.5 cup of Bisquick baking mix or regular all-purpose flour to coat the beef.
How do I properly coat the beef?
Place the cubed meat into a zip-lock bag with the Bisquick or flour and shake until every piece is well coated.
What type of oil is best for searing the meat?
You can use 3-4 tablespoons of any standard cooking oil, such as vegetable or canola oil, heated over medium-high heat.
How long does it take to brown the beef?
It takes approximately 5-7 minutes to sear the beef until it is browned on all sides.
Should I discard the leftover flour in the bag?
No, once the beef is browned, sprinkle any remaining Bisquick or flour from the bag into the pot to help thicken the gravy.
What liquid forms the base of this stew?
The recipe calls for 3 cups of beef broth as the primary liquid base.
What seasonings are used in the Savory Homestyle Beef Stew?
The stew is seasoned with dried onion flakes, salt, pepper, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup.
Why is sugar added to a savory beef stew?
A small amount of sugar (1 teaspoon) is used to balance the acidity of the ketchup and deepen the overall flavor profile.
How long does the stew need to simmer initially?
After adding the broth and seasonings, let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 1.5 hours.
When do I add the carrots and potatoes?
Add the chopped carrots and cubed potatoes after the initial 1.5-hour simmer.
How long do the vegetables take to cook in the stew?
The carrots and potatoes should cook uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until they are tender.
When are the frozen peas added?
Add the frozen peas during the last 10 minutes of cooking to ensure they stay vibrant and aren't overcooked.
How many calories are in a serving of this beef stew?
Each serving contains approximately 200 calories.
What is the protein content of this recipe?
This beef stew provides 13g of protein per serving.
How much fat is in the Savory Homestyle Beef Stew?
There are 8g of fat per serving in this recipe.
What is the carbohydrate count for this stew?
This recipe contains 18g of carbohydrates and 2g of fiber per serving.
How many ingredients are needed for this recipe?
There are 12 main ingredients used to create this homestyle stew.
Is this recipe suitable for a family dinner?
Yes, it is tagged as a family dinner and is designed to be a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal.
Can I substitute fresh onions for dried onion flakes?
While the recipe calls for dried flakes for convenience, you can use fresh sautéed onions for a similar flavor.
What is the secret to the stew's deep flavor?
The secret lies in the blend of spices and the gradual 2-hour simmering process which allows flavors to meld.
Does this stew contain Worcestershire sauce?
Yes, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce is included to add a savory umami depth.
How many carrots and potatoes do I need?
You will need 2 large chopped carrots and 1 large cubed potato.
What kind of pot is best for making stew?
A large stew pot or a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven is recommended for even heat distribution.
Should the pot be covered while simmering?
The pot should be covered during the first 1.5 hours of simmering and uncovered for the final 30 minutes while the vegetables cook.
Is this a good recipe for winter?
Yes, it is specifically noted as being perfect for cozy winter days and chilly evenings.
What is the texture of the final stew?
The result is a rich, flavorful gravy with tender chunks of meat and soft vegetables.
Can I adjust the salt and pepper?
Yes, the recipe encourages seasoning to taste and adjusting the levels before serving.
How do I serve this beef stew?
Serve the stew warm in bowls, ideally paired with bread or biscuits to soak up the savory gravy.