This Hearty Cowboy Stew is like a warm hug in a bowl! With beef, beans, and loads of veggies, it’s filling and oh-so-tasty.
On cozy nights, I love making it all in one pot. Just toss it together, let it simmer, and enjoy the rich flavors. Perfect with crusty bread!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: Chuck roast is my go-to because of its flavor and tenderness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use sirloin. For a vegetarian version, try hearty mushrooms or a mix of lentils.
Kidney & Pinto Beans: Both add protein and fiber. If you don’t have these, black beans or chickpeas work well too. Just rinse them before adding to remove excess salt.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes bring acidity and richness. You can substitute with fresh tomatoes if you have them—just peel and chop them. For a spicier kick, use fire-roasted tomatoes.
Vegetables: Potatoes, carrots, celery, and bell peppers are classic choices. Feel free to swap in other veggies like sweet potatoes or zucchini, depending on what you have at home.
How Do You Get Perfectly Tender Beef?
Getting tender beef in your stew is all about the cooking time and method. Here’s how to achieve it:
- Brown the beef first in hot oil. This adds great flavor.
- Simmer the stew low and slow. This breaks down tough fibers in the meat.
- Make sure the stew is covered while cooking, to keep moisture in.
- Check for tenderness with a fork. It should fall apart easily when done.
Patience is key! Letting it cook longer develops richer flavors too.
Hearty Cowboy Stew Recipe for Cozy Nights
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 1.5 pounds beef stew meat (chuck roast or round), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juice
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
For Seasoning:
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 bay leaf
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Hearty Cowboy Stew takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 1.5 to 2 hours to cook. So, in total, you’re looking at about 2 hours and 15 minutes to a delicious, warming meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. When done, remove the beef and set it aside for later.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the diced onion. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until you can smell the garlic’s lovely aroma!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Return the browned beef to the pot. Now, pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), kidney beans, and pinto beans. Give it a good stir!
4. Add the Rest of the Veggies:
Next, stir in the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, sliced celery, and the diced green bell pepper. This stew is all about those hearty vegetables!
5. Season It Right:
Sprinkle in the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, black pepper, and salt. Toss in the bay leaf and mix everything together nicely.
6. Simmering Time:
Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours. Check occasionally until the beef and vegetables are tender and flavorful.
7. Final Touches:
Before serving, don’t forget to remove the bay leaf. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top if you like for a touch of color and freshness.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the hearty cowboy stew hot, with a side of crusty bread or cornbread. Perfect for those cozy nights in!
FAQ About Hearty Cowboy Stew
Can I Use Different Proteins in This Stew?
Absolutely! While beef is traditional, you can substitute with turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian dish, use lentils or hearty mushrooms as a protein-packed alternative.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
Feel free to experiment with additional herbs and spices like thyme, oregano, or even a dash of hot sauce for some heat. A splash of red wine can also enhance the stew’s flavor during cooking!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Can I Make This Stew in a Slow Cooker?
Yes! Brown the meat and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything into a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef and vegetables are tender. Super convenient!
