Poor Man’s Stew: A Hearty and Affordable Classic




 


Instructions:

  1. Brown the Ground Beef:

    • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.

  2. Sauté the Onions:

    • Add the diced onions to the pot and sauté until they become translucent and tender, about 5 minutes. If necessary, add a little more olive oil to prevent sticking.

  3. Add the Vegetables:

    • Add the diced potatoes and sliced carrots to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to combine the flavors.

  4. Incorporate the Tomatoes and Tomato Paste:

    • Stir in the can of diced tomatoes (including the juice) and the tomato paste. Mix well to ensure the tomato paste is evenly distributed.

  5. Combine the Ingredients:

    • Return the browned ground beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and add the garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all the ingredients.

  6. Simmer the Stew:

    • Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

  7. Adjust Seasoning and Serve:

    • Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, with crusty bread or rolls for a complete and satisfying meal.

Tips and Variations:

  • Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with lentils or chickpeas for a vegetarian version of this stew.
  • Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables you have on hand, such as celery, peas, or green beans.
  • Spice It Up: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Slow Cooker Method: To make this stew in a slow cooker, brown the ground beef and sauté the onions on the stovetop first, then transfer all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Why This Recipe Works:

  • Simple Ingredients: The use of basic, inexpensive ingredients makes this recipe budget-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
  • Comforting and Satisfying: The combination of meat, potatoes, and carrots creates a hearty and nourishing meal that's perfect for any time of year.
  • One-Pot Meal: Everything is cooked in one pot, making cleanup a breeze and allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.


Enjoy!!