Why You’ll Love This Low Carb Beefy Stew Recipe
When the chill of winter sets in, there’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of Low Carb Beefy Stew to warm you up.
I love how this recipe combines rich flavors with wholesome ingredients, making it a guilt-free comfort food. The tender beef melts in your mouth, while the veggies add a delightful crunch.
Plus, it’s low in carbs, so I don’t have to worry about my diet during the colder months. I appreciate how easy it’s to make, too; just throw everything in a pot and let it simmer.
You’ll find yourself craving it again and again!
Ingredients of Low Carb Beefy Stew
When it comes to whipping up a comforting bowl of Low Carb Beefy Stew, the ingredients play an essential role in delivering that rich flavor and satisfying texture we all crave on chilly days. With just a handful of wholesome components, you can create a dish that not only fills you up but also keeps those pesky carbs at bay.
Plus, there’s something so satisfying about chopping up veggies and browning beef, right? It feels almost like cooking magic. So, let’s explore what you’ll need to bring this delicious stew to life.
Ingredients for Low Carb Beefy Stew:
- 1 1/2 lbs stewing beef
- 1 (14 1/2 ounce) can sliced stewed tomatoes
- 1 (14 1/2 ounce) can beef broth
- 1 beef bouillon cube
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon thyme
- 1 large rutabaga, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 medium zucchini, diced
Now, you might be wondering about some of these ingredients—like rutabaga. What on earth is that, right? Rutabaga is a root vegetable that’s like a cross between a turnip and a cabbage, and it adds a unique flavor and texture to the stew.
And don’t worry if you’ve never cooked with it before; just peel it like you’d a potato and chop it into cubes. Easy-peasy. As for the zucchini, I love how it absorbs all the stew’s flavors. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies without feeling like you’re eating a salad.
How to Make Low Carb Beefy Stew
Making your Low Carb Beefy Stew is like starting a cozy culinary adventure, and trust me, it’s worth every minute spent in the kitchen. First things first, grab your 1 1/2 lbs of stewing beef and give it a good browning in a splash of olive oil over medium-high heat. You want to see that lovely caramelization happen on all sides—it’s what makes the beef so rich and flavorful.
As the beef sizzles and dances in the pot, you’ll want to keep an eye on it, maybe even do a little happy dance yourself while imagining all the deliciousness to come.
Once your beef is beautifully browned, it’s time to add in the magic ingredients. Toss in that 14 1/2 ounce can of sliced stewed tomatoes, followed by the 14 1/2 ounce can of beef broth, and don’t forget the beef bouillon cube—this is where the flavor really starts to build.
Now, sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of thyme. Stir everything together, and add enough water to cover the beef. Now, lower the heat and let it simmer gently for about 1 and 1/2 hours. Yes, I know it feels like an eternity, but that’s when all those flavors meld together into something truly special.
After that long, aromatic wait, it’s time to introduce the star of our veggie show: the rutabaga. Take your large rutabaga, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes, and toss it into the pot. Let it simmer for another 30 minutes.
By now, your kitchen will smell amazing, and you might start questioning why you ever ordered takeout. Finally, during the last 30 minutes of simmering, add in 2 medium diced zucchini. They’re like sponges soaking up all the deliciousness. If things look a bit dry, don’t hesitate to add a splash more liquid.
Once it’s all done, take a moment to taste your stew and adjust the seasonings if you like. And there you have it—a warm, comforting bowl of Low Carb Beefy Stew that’s sure to make your taste buds dance. Enjoy every hearty spoonful!
Low Carb Beefy Stew Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your Low Carb Beefy Stew, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to contemplate.
For a different flavor, try using lamb or pork instead of beef. You can swap rutabaga for turnips or cauliflower for a unique twist.
If you’re not a fan of zucchini, bell peppers or green beans work great too!
To amp up the flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce.
Don’t forget to experiment with herbs like rosemary or basil for an extra layer of taste.
Enjoy creating your perfect stew!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Low Carb Beefy Stew turns out perfectly, I recommend prepping your ingredients ahead of time. It saves you stress and makes certain everything cooks evenly.
Don’t skip browning the beef; it adds depth to the flavor. If you want extra richness, consider adding a splash of red wine while simmering.
For thicker stew, mash a few rutabaga pieces with a fork before serving. And remember, taste-testing is key—don’t hesitate to adjust spices to fit your palate.
Finally, this stew is even better the next day, so make extra and enjoy leftovers for lunch!