Sweet and Tangy Cider Beef Stew
Indulge in the warmth and comfort of this Sweet and Tangy Cider Beef Stew, specifically crafted for those moments when you crave the heartiness of beef stew without the leftovers lingering for days. This delightful dish balances the robust flavors of tender beef with the refreshing sweetness of apple cider and a touch of tang from vinegar, creating a unique taste experience that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for a cozy dinner for two, it's made with tender chunks of beef, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs, all simmered to perfection in a rich, soul-soothing broth. Enjoy a bowl of this comforting stew, and let its delightful blend of flavors brighten your meal.
4
Servings
245
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons (none)
salt
1 teaspoon (none)
pepper
1/2 teaspoon (none)
beef stew meat
1 lb (cut into 1-inch pieces)
vegetable oil
2 tablespoons (none)
apple cider
1 cup (none)
water
1/2 cup (none)
vinegar
1 tablespoon (none)
dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon (none)
carrots
2 large (cut into 1-inch pieces)
potato
1 large (cut into 1-inch pieces)
onion
1 medium (halved and sliced)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and pepper. Add the beef stew meat and toss until all pieces are evenly coated with the flour mixture.
2
In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the coated beef and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3
Once browned, pour in the apple cider, water, vinegar, and sprinkle in the dried thyme. Stir to combine all ingredients.
4
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.
5
After 1 hour, add the carrots, potato, and sliced onion to the stew. Stir well, then bring the mixture back to a boil.
6
Once boiling, reduce the heat again and let it simmer for an additional 45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well developed.
7
Serve hot and enjoy your Sweet and Tangy Cider Beef Stew!
Nutrition Information
8.5g
Fat
17.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sweet and Tangy Cider Beef Stew?
It is a hearty dish that balances the robust flavors of tender beef with the sweetness of apple cider and a touch of tang from vinegar, simmered with vegetables and herbs.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What are the primary ingredients in this beef stew?
The main ingredients include 1 lb of beef stew meat, 1 cup of apple cider, 1 tablespoon of vinegar, carrots, a large potato, and an onion.
What is the total cooking time for the stew?
The stew involves browning the beef for 5-7 minutes, simmering for 1 hour, and then a final simmer with vegetables for 45 minutes, totaling about 2 hours.
How many calories are in a serving of this stew?
There are approximately 245 calories per serving.
What type of beef is best for this recipe?
Beef stew meat cut into 1-inch pieces is recommended for the best results.
Can I substitute apple juice for apple cider?
Yes, apple juice can be used as a substitute, though cider provides a deeper, more complex flavor profile.
Why do I need to coat the beef in flour before browning?
Coating the beef in flour, salt, and pepper helps create a nice crust during browning and naturally thickens the stew broth as it simmers.
Is this beef stew high in protein?
Yes, it contains approximately 17.5g of protein per serving.
What vegetables are traditionally used in this version?
This recipe uses 2 large carrots, 1 large potato, and 1 medium onion.
What kind of oil should I use for browning the meat?
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil are used to brown the beef chunks.
Can I use fresh thyme instead of dried?
Yes, you can substitute fresh thyme; typically, you would use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried herbs.
What provides the 'tangy' flavor in the stew?
The tanginess comes from the addition of one tablespoon of vinegar combined with the acidity of the apple cider.
How should the vegetables be prepared?
Carrots and potatoes should be cut into 1-inch pieces, and the onion should be halved and sliced.
Is this a good recipe for the fall season?
Yes, it is tagged as a fall recipe and comfort food, making it perfect for cooler weather.
How much fat does one serving contain?
Each serving contains about 8.5g of fat.
When should I add the vegetables to the pot?
Add the carrots, potato, and onion after the beef has simmered for its first hour.
What heat setting is used for simmering?
The stew should be simmered on a low heat setting once it has reached a gentle boil.
Can I make this stew in a Dutch oven?
Yes, a large saucepan or a Dutch oven is ideal for this recipe.
Do I need to add water to the broth?
Yes, the recipe calls for 1/2 cup of water in addition to the apple cider.
Is this stew suitable for a cozy dinner for two?
Absolutely; while it serves four, it's designed to be heartier without leaving excessive leftovers.
Can I freeze leftovers of this stew?
Yes, beef stew typically freezes well in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
What is the best way to reheat the stew?
Reheat it gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Is there any sugar added to the recipe?
No extra sugar is added; the sweetness comes naturally from the apple cider.
How do I know when the beef is done?
The beef is done when it is tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
Can I add other root vegetables like parsnips?
Yes, parsnips or turnips would be excellent additions alongside the carrots and potatoes.
What kind of vinegar should I use?
White vinegar or apple cider vinegar both work well to provide the necessary tang.
Should the pot be covered during simmering?
Yes, the instructions recommend covering the pot during the initial 1-hour simmer.
How much salt and pepper is used?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper.
What can I serve with this stew?
It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple side salad to soak up the broth.