| Prep Time ⇒ | 10 mins |
| Addit Time ⇒ | 6 hrs 10 mins |
| Protein ⇒ | 47g |
| Fat ⇒ | 15g |
| Carbs ⇒ | 36g |
Christmas Eve Beef Stew : Delicious Beef recipe
This hearty beef stew has become a cherished family tradition for Christmas Eve. It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and a warm loaf of bread. For convenience, you can also prepare it in a slow cooker.
Ingredients :
- 2 ½ pounds beef stew meat, diced into 1-inch pieces
- 1 (28-ounce) can stewed tomatoes, with juice
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, cubed
- 3 onions, chopped
- 3 ½ tablespoons tapioca
- 2 cubes beef bouillon
- ⅛ teaspoon dried thyme
- ⅛ teaspoon dried rosemary
- ⅛ teaspoon dried marjoram
- ¼ cup red wine
- 1 (10-ounce) package frozen green peas, thawed
Directions :
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
Step 2: In a Dutch oven, combine the beef, stewed tomatoes (with juice), celery, carrots, potatoes, onions, and tapioca. Season the mixture with beef bouillon, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram, then stir in the red wine. Cover with the lid.
Step 3: Bake in the preheated oven for 5 to 6 hours. Add the thawed peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Recipe Facts :
Beef stew is not just comforting; it’s also a source of essential nutrients. Beef is rich in protein, iron, and B vitamins, which are important for energy and overall health. For more information about the nutritional benefits of beef, check out this link to Wikipedia.
For more delicious recipes and holiday cooking ideas, visit my blog at hearty-recipes.com. Enjoy your festive meal!
The nutritional benefits of the ingredients in your Christmas Eve Beef Stew :
The Heart of the Stew: Beef
Beef is the star ingredient in your Christmas Eve Beef Stew, providing rich flavor and a hearty texture. It is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Additionally, beef is rich in important nutrients such as iron, zinc, and B vitamins, particularly B12, which is vital for energy production and maintaining healthy nerve cells. When selecting beef, consider lean cuts to reduce saturated fat while still enjoying its nutritional benefits. To learn more about beef and its health benefits, visit Beef on Wikipedia.
Nutrient-Dense Vegetables: Carrots and Potatoes
Adding carrots and potatoes not only enhances the flavor and texture of your stew but also boosts its nutritional profile. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A, supporting eye health and immune function. They also provide dietary fiber, promoting digestive health. Potatoes, particularly when left with their skins, are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and additional fiber. Together, these vegetables contribute essential vitamins and minerals while adding a satisfying heartiness to your dish. To delve deeper into the benefits of carrots and potatoes, check out Carrot on Wikipedia and Potato on Wikipedia.
The Aromatic Boost: Onions and Garlic
Onions and garlic are key flavor enhancers in your beef stew and are known for their numerous health benefits. Onions are rich in antioxidants and compounds that may help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases. Garlic, on the other hand, is celebrated for its immune-boosting properties and cardiovascular benefits. It contains allicin, a compound that may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Together, they create a flavorful base while also providing a host of health advantages. For more on onions, visit Onion on Wikipedia and for garlic, visit Garlic on Wikipedia.
A Flavorful Foundation: Herbs and Spices
The use of herbs and spices in your beef stew not only enhances its flavor but also adds various health benefits. Commonly used herbs like thyme, bay leaves, and parsley are rich in antioxidants and vitamins. Thyme, for instance, has antimicrobial properties and can aid digestion, while bay leaves add depth to the flavor profile. Including a variety of spices can also improve overall health by providing anti-inflammatory benefits. To explore more about culinary herbs, check out Herb on Wikipedia.
The Goodness of Broth: Nutritional Benefits
The broth or stock used in your beef stew serves as a flavorful liquid base and is an essential component that adds nutritional value. If made from scratch, bone broth is particularly rich in collagen, which is beneficial for joint health and skin elasticity. It also provides minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, supporting overall health. When choosing store-bought broth, opt for low-sodium options to keep your dish heart-healthy while still retaining flavor. For further information on broth, visit Broth on Wikipedia.
The Power of Peas: Nutritional Benefits
Adding peas to your beef stew not only introduces a pop of color but also enhances its nutritional profile. Peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins such as vitamin K and vitamin C. They also contain antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation in the body. Including peas in your stew makes it a more balanced dish, providing additional nutrients while complementing the flavors of the beef and vegetables. To learn more about peas, check out Pea on Wikipedia.
Customizing for Healthier Eating
While the traditional beef stew is comforting and delicious, there are numerous ways to enhance its nutritional content. Consider substituting some of the beef with plant-based proteins like lentils or beans for a heart-healthy twist. You can also increase the vegetable content by adding more varieties, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to pack in extra nutrients. These small adjustments can create a more balanced dish while maintaining the flavors you love. For a variety of recipes, visit Hearty Recipes.
A Hearty and Nutritious Celebration
Your Christmas Eve Beef Stew is more than just a cozy dish; it’s a celebration of hearty ingredients that nourish the body and soul. By incorporating protein, vegetables, and flavorful herbs, you create a meal that warms the heart while providing essential nutrients. This holiday season, gather around the table with loved ones to enjoy a comforting bowl of stew, knowing that it’s both delicious and packed with health benefits.