As humans, we have an insatiable craving for meat. There’s something about the aroma, the texture, and the flavor that draws us in and satisfies us in a way that no other food can. Whether you’re a carnivore at heart or a conscious meat-eater, adding hearty stews to your meal plan is one way to enjoy your meat cravings without feeling guilty. Not only that, stews are known to be rich in protein and micro-nutrients that can help boost your immune system and maintain good health.
Here’s a look at some flavorful and hearty stew meat recipes that are easy to prepare, nutritious, and drool-worthy.
1. Classic Beef Stew
This classic and fuss-free beef stew recipe is a perfect meal to have in a chilly evening. It’s a hearty and comforting meal that requires only a few minutes of preparation but packed with flavor and nutrients. The recipe contains beef, carrots, potatoes, onions – a perfect combination of protein, vegetables, and carbs.
To make a classic beef stew, you’ll need:
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat
– 6 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 4 potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 cups beef broth
– Salt and pepper
– Thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves
Instructions:
– Season the beef stew with salt and pepper.
– In a large pot, heat olive oil and add chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 2 minutes.
– Add the beef stew and cook until browned.
– Add the carrots and potatoes and stir to combine.
– Pour beef broth and add thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.
– Cover and simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the meat and veggies are tender.
2. Lamb Stew with Root Vegetables
For those who like lamb, this lamb stew with root vegetables is a superb option that has enough flavors, aroma, and nutrition to brighten up any dinner table. Combining lamb, root vegetables, and a blend of seasonings, this recipe turns out to be a real winner in terms of nutrition and taste.
To make lamb stew with root vegetables, you’ll need:
Ingredients:
– 3 pounds lamb shoulder
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 3 parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 3 turnips, peeled and chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 tablespoon fresh thyme
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cups beef broth
– Salt and pepper
Instructions:
– In a large pot, heat olive oil and add chopped onions and garlic. Cook for 2 minutes.
– Add the lamb shoulder and cook until browned.
– Add the root veggies, seasonings, and broth. Stir to combine.
– Cover and simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours or until the meat is tender.
3. Chicken and Sausage Stew
This hearty chicken and sausage stew is a great one-pot meal that has enough flavors and textures to appease any carnivore. Combining chicken, sausage, beans, and veggies, this recipe provides a heap of nutrition needed to maintain good health.
To make a chicken and sausage stew, you’ll need:
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken thighs, bone-in
– 1 pound of sausage (kielbasa or Andouille)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cans of white beans, drained and rinsed
– 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste
Instructions:
– In a large pot, heat olive oil and add chopped onions and garlic. Cook for 2 minutes.
– Add chicken thighs and sausage. Cook until browned.
– Add veggies, seasoning, and broth.
– Cover and simmer for 45 minutes or until the meat is tender.
Health Benefits of Stews
Stews, in general, are nutrient-dense meals that are loaded with health benefits. Here are a few reasons to add stews to your meal plan:
– Packed with protein: Stews are protein-rich meal options that can help repair and build muscle tissues.
– Nutrient-dense: Stews combine different veggies and proteins, ensuring that you get a good dose of vitamins and minerals with every serving.
– Boosts immune system: The broth of stews is known for its immune-boosting properties that can help protect you from infections and diseases.
– Easy to digest: Stews containing meat and veggies in small pieces are easy to digest, making them ideal for people with digestive issues.
FAQs
Q. Can I freeze stews?
Ans. Yes, stews can be frozen in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Q. Can I use different proteins in stews?
Ans. Yes, you can use different proteins, such as lamb, beef, chicken, pork, and sausage, to make stews.
Q. How long can I store stew in the fridge?
Ans. Stews can be stored in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
In conclusion, satisfying your meat cravings does not have to mean unhealthy or unethical practices. With these hearty and flavorful stew meat recipes, you can meet your bodily needs and nourish your taste buds without any guilt or detrimental consequences. Therefore, give these recipes a try to add vibrancy, richness, and taste to your daily meals.
