This Cowboy Stew is like a big warm hug in a bowl! Packed with tender beef, potatoes, beans, and veggies, it’s hearty and filling. Perfect for those chilly nights!
I love how easy it is to make—just throw everything in a pot and let it simmer. It’s so comforting that you might want to wear your favorite cozy socks while eating! 🧦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: I recommend using chuck roast for its rich flavor and tenderness. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use sirloin or even chicken for a lighter stew!
Vegetable Oil: Any cooking oil will work, but I like using olive oil for a slightly richer taste. You can also try avocado oil for a healthier option.
Beans: The combination of kidney and pinto beans adds great texture. If you’re short on beans, black beans or chickpeas can be a tasty substitute.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika are essential for flavor. You can mix it up by adding fresh herbs like thyme or oregano if you have those on hand!
How Do I Get the Beef to Brown Perfectly?
Browning the beef is key to developing great flavor in your Cowboy Stew. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your pot is hot before adding the oil and beef. This prevents steaming and helps get that nice brown crust.
- Don’t crowd the pan! Cook in batches if needed. This allows all the pieces to brown evenly.
- Let the beef sit without stirring for 2-3 minutes, then flip to brown on all sides.
Patience is key here—browning adds depth to your stew that you’ll notice in each bite!
Hearty Cowboy Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty Cowboy Stew takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 1.5 hours to cook. It’s a great meal to throw together on a weekend or when you want something cozy and delicious without too much fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Beef:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the beef stew meat. Cook it until it’s nicely browned on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. When it’s done, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside for later.
2. Sautéing the Aromatics:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and let it cook until it becomes soft, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells delicious and fragrant!
3. Combining Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and the can of diced tomatoes (make sure to include the juice!). Stir everything together to combine the flavors.
4. Adding Vegetables and Spices:
Add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and bring it all to a boil. This is where the magic starts to happen!
5. Letting It Simmer:
Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours. This slow cooking will make the beef super tender and flavorful!
6. Final Touches:
After simmering, add the kidney beans, pinto beans, and corn. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 15 minutes. This is when all the flavors mingle beautifully.
7. Adjust and Garnish:
Taste your stew and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt or pepper to suit your preference. Just before serving, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a touch of color and flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out your piping hot Cowboy Stew into bowls and serve it with crusty bread or over rice for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this delicious dish!
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Stew?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but be sure to thaw it completely before browning. The best way to do this is by placing it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can thaw it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for a faster method.
Can I Make This Cowboy Stew Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, or even lentils. You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and add more beans to keep it filling and delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Cowboy Stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to get creative with your vegetables. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even green beans would be delicious additions. Just keep in mind that different vegetables may require slight adjustments to cooking times!
