When it comes to comfort food with a hearty, Midwest twist, Hoosier Stew hits all the right notes. This simple yet satisfying dish hails from Indiana, where farm-fresh ingredients and no-fuss cooking take center stage. It’s a one-pot wonder that brings together tender smoked sausage, sweet corn, fresh green beans, and hearty potatoes for a meal that feels like a warm hug.
Hoosier Stew Recipe
This Hoosier Stew Recipe is a hearty and comforting Midwestern classic that brings together simple, fresh ingredients in one flavorful pot. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create this delicious dish.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this Hoosier Stew to life:
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 cups sweet corn kernels, fresh or frozen
- 1 small onion, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Wash, peel, and chop the potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Trim the ends off the green beans and cut them in half. Slice the smoked sausage into even rounds.
2. Sauté the Sausage:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the smoked sausage slices and cook until lightly browned on both sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the sausage and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the diced onions and cook for 2 minutes or until they turn translucent. Stir in the garlic powder and cook for an additional 30 seconds for enhanced flavor.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for extra depth of flavor. Add the diced potatoes, green beans, and corn. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Simmer Until Tender:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes and green beans are tender.
6. Add the Sausage:
Return the sautéed sausage to the pot, stirring to combine. Cook for another 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the stew into bowls and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley (if desired). Serve hot and enjoy this comforting, homestyle dish with your loved ones.
Cooking Timeline
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Ingredient Prep | 10 minutes |
| Browning Sausage | 5 minutes |
| Sautéing Aromatics | 2-3 minutes |
| Simmering Stew | 20-25 minutes |
| Final Cook After Adding Sausage | 5 minutes |
| Total Cook Time | 43-48 minutes |
This Hoosier Stew Recipe showcases simple techniques and fresh ingredients to create a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying.
Ingredients
To make this classic Hoosier Stew, you’ll need a blend of fresh vegetables, a touch of seasonings, and a hearty smoked sausage to bring everything together. Here’s a breakdown of what to gather:
Key Ingredients
- 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced into 1/4-inch pieces
- 4 medium russet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs), peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and halved
- 2 cups sweet corn kernels, fresh or frozen
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 3 cups chicken broth, low sodium preferred
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
Seasonings
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Ingredient Preparation Table
| Ingredient | Preparation Details |
|---|---|
| Smoked Sausage | Slice into 1/4-inch pieces |
| Russet Potatoes | Peel and dice into 1-inch cubes |
| Green Beans | Trim ends and cut in half |
| Sweet Corn Kernels | Use fresh or thaw frozen kernels |
| Onion | Dice finely |
Equipment Needed
To make this hearty Hoosier Stew, we need the right tools for seamless preparation and cooking. Let’s gather everything we’ll use to save time and avoid interruptions while cooking.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Large Heavy-Bottomed Pot or Dutch Oven: The key to creating a flavorful one-pot meal. Choose a pot with a capacity of at least 6 quarts to comfortably hold all the ingredients and allow them to simmer without spilling over.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for slicing the smoked sausage, potatoes, onion, and green beans.
- Chef’s Knife: A sharp chef’s knife makes chopping and slicing effortless, ensuring uniform cuts that cook evenly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are essential for achieving the perfect balance of flavors, especially for seasonings and chicken broth.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring the dish without scratching the pot’s surface.
- Colander: Use a colander to rinse and drain the fresh green beans and sweet corn before adding them to the stew.
- Vegetable Peeler: If peeling russet potatoes is your preference, a vegetable peeler will make the process smoother and quicker.
Optional Equipment
- Serving Ladle: For portioning this delicious stew.
- Mandoline Slicer: For those who want evenly sliced potatoes or thinly chopped veggies.
Equipment Checklist
Here’s a quick reference for the equipment needed:
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Heavy-Bottomed Pot | Simmering ingredients and creating the stew base |
| Cutting Board | Prepping vegetables and sausage |
| Chef’s Knife | Chopping and slicing ingredients |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | Ensuring precise ingredient measurements |
| Wooden Spoon/Silicone Spatula | Stirring the stew while cooking |
| Colander | Rinsing and draining vegetables |
| Vegetable Peeler | Peeling potatoes if needed |
| Serving Ladle (Optional) | Serving the Hoosier Stew with ease |
| Mandoline Slicer (Optional) | Achieving uniform slices for potatoes or thin vegetables |
Having all the necessary equipment ready beforehand makes the cooking process smoother and keeps us focused on creating this comforting Midwestern dish.
Directions
Let’s bring the heartwarming flavors of Hoosier Stew to life with this step-by-step guide. Follow along as we prepare, cook, and serve this comforting Midwest favorite.
Prep
- Prepare the sausage: Slice 12 oz of smoked sausage into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Set them aside.
- Peel and chop the potatoes: Peel 4 medium russet potatoes, then dice them into evenly-sized 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
- Trim the green beans: Wash and trim 1 lb of fresh green beans, removing any tough ends. Cut them into 1 1/2-inch pieces.
- Dice the onion: Peel and finely dice 1 medium onion for flavor-packed sautéing.
- Measure out corn and broth: Have 2 cups of sweet corn kernels and 3 cups of low-sodium chicken broth ready.
- Gather seasonings: Measure 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp dried thyme, and 1 tsp smoked paprika into a small bowl for easy seasoning during cooking.
- Optional garnish prep: Finely chop fresh parsley if you’d like to garnish the stew before serving.
Cook
- Brown the sausage: Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and slightly crisp. Remove the sausage and set it aside on a plate.
- Sauté the onion: In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until soft and fragrant.
- Add the potatoes: Stir the diced potatoes into the pot, cooking for 5 minutes to lightly brown the edges. This gives them a slight caramelization that enhances their flavor.
- Combine green beans and corn: Add the green beans and corn to the pot, stirring to combine.
- Add the broth and seasonings: Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth and stir in the seasonings (garlic powder, dried thyme, and smoked paprika). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer until tender: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The potatoes should be fork-tender, and the green beans should remain slightly crisp.
- Add the sausage: Return the browned sausage to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
- Taste and adjust: Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
| Step | Task | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Prep the ingredients | Chop, dice, and measure items | 10-12 minutes |
| Brown the sausage | Cook sausage slices | 4-5 minutes |
| Sauté and cook vegetables | Cook onion, potatoes, beans | 28-33 minutes |
| Finish and serve | Add sausage and adjust flavor | 5 minutes |
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying Hoosier Stew, there are countless ways to elevate the dining experience. This hearty, rustic dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, garnishes, and complementary elements. Let’s dive into some serving ideas to bring out the best in this comforting Midwestern classic.
1. Garnishing for Freshness and Flavor
Before serving, we can enhance the visual appeal and flavor of the stew with a few simple garnish ideas:
- Fresh parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley for a pop of vibrant color.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Add a subtle, salty richness that pairs perfectly with the smoky sausage.
- Cracked black pepper: A finishing sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper gives a slightly spicy touch.
- Red pepper flakes: For those who love a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a delightful kick.
2. Serve with Bread or Rolls
Hoosier Stew is even more satisfying when served with bread to soak up its flavorful broth. Some options include:
- Buttery dinner rolls: Soft and fluffy, perfect for sopping up every last drop.
- Crusty artisan bread: A hearty loaf with a crunchy crust complements the stew’s rustic charm.
- Cornbread: Its sweet-savory profile pairs wonderfully with the stew’s smoky sausage and creamy potatoes.
3. Side Dish Ideas
Round out the meal with additional sides that balance and complement the stew:
- Simple side salad: A light salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich stew.
- Roasted vegetables: Serve roasted carrots, brussels sprouts, or root vegetables for added depth of flavor.
- Pickled vegetables: Tart, tangy pickled cucumbers, or beets brighten the dish with a burst of acidity.
4. Perfect Beverages
Pairing the right drink can elevate the meal to the next level. Whether we’re looking for a cozy drink or something more vibrant, here are some options:
- Iced tea: A classic option for a Midwestern meal.
- Lemonade: Sweet and tangy, it refreshes the palate.
- Beer: A light lager or amber ale pairs perfectly with the smoky sausage and rich broth.
- Hot apple cider: Perfect for colder days when we want to lean into the warm, comforting vibe of the stew.
5. Make It a Party
If we’re entertaining, Hoosier Stew lends itself well to a buffet-style serving setup. Pair it with complementary dishes for a complete meal:
| Dish/Category | Suggested Complementary Options |
|---|---|
| Appetizer | Cheese platter, vegetable crudités |
| Main accompaniments | Mashed potatoes, dinner rolls, wild rice |
| Dessert | Fruit crisps, apple pie, or brownies |
Whatever the occasion, Hoosier Stew shines as a centerpiece while blending effortlessly with sides and drinks to create a memorable meal. It’s an endlessly versatile dish that allows us to get creative with how we present and enjoy it.
Make-Ahead Tips
When life gets busy, prepping ahead can make all the difference in keeping this Hoosier Stew recipe both convenient and stress-free. Here are a few effective strategies to prepare your ingredients and streamline the process:
1. Prep Ingredients in Advance
- Smoked Sausage: Slice the smoked sausage into 1/4-inch pieces and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Potatoes: Peel and dice the potatoes, then submerge them in a bowl of cold water and store in the fridge. This prevents browning and keeps them fresh for up to 24 hours.
- Green Beans: Trim and cut the green beans into 2-inch pieces. Place them in a resealable bag or container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Sweet Corn: If using fresh corn, shuck and remove kernels in advance. Store in a covered container in the fridge; it will maintain freshness for 1-2 days.
- Onion: Dice the onion ahead of time and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
2. Assemble a Spice Mix
Pre-measure the following seasonings and store them in a small sealed jar or a resealable bag to save time:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
3. Pre-Simmer the Broth
Measure out the 3 cups of low-sodium chicken broth in advance. If you’d like, you can warm it slightly before mixing it into the stew for faster simmering during the cooking process.
4. Portion and Label for Ease
For a hassle-free experience, prepare and label all your prepped ingredients in separate containers. Here’s a quick reference table for storage timelines:
| Ingredient | How to Store | Storage Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Smoked Sausage | Airtight container (fridge) | Up to 2 days |
| Diced Potatoes | Submerged in water (fridge) | Up to 24 hours |
| Green Beans | Resealable bag (fridge) | Up to 2 days |
| Sweet Corn | Covered container (fridge) | 1-2 days |
| Diced Onion | Airtight container (fridge) | Up to 2 days |
5. Make in Bulk
Hoosier Stew is a great dish to prepare in larger quantities. Cook once and enjoy leftovers! Store the cooked stew in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if necessary to maintain its texture and flavor.
Storage And Reheating Instructions
When it comes to storing Hoosier Stew, proper methods ensure its flavors remain as hearty and flavorful as the first bite. Follow these straightforward steps to effortlessly store and reheat this comforting dish.
Storage Instructions
- Cool the Stew Properly: Allow the Hoosier Stew to cool to room temperature before storing. Avoid leaving it out for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
- Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the stew into airtight containers or resealable freezer bags to lock in freshness. Divide it into individual portions for convenience, especially if you plan to reheat small amounts.
- Refrigeration: Store the stew in the refrigerator if you plan to consume it within 3 to 4 days.
- Freezing the Stew:
- For longer storage, freeze the stew. Ensure all air is removed from the containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.
- The Hoosier Stew can be frozen for up to 3 months without sacrificing quality.
Check the table below for quick storage guidelines:
| Storage Option | Temperature | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | 32°F – 40°F | 3-4 days |
| Freezing | 0°F or below | Up to 3 months |
Reheating Instructions
- Thaw if Frozen:
- For frozen stew, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight.
- For a quicker method, submerge the sealed freezer bag in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes.
- Stovetop Reheating:
- Place the stew in a heavy-bottomed pot or saucepan.
- Add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the consistency, if needed.
- Heat on medium, stirring occasionally, for 8 to 10 minutes or until piping hot.
- Microwave Reheating:
- Use a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plate to prevent splatters.
- Heat in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between, until evenly warmed.
- Total time will vary depending on the microwave but typically ranges from 3 to 5 minutes.
- Oven Reheating (Best for Larger Portions):
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Transfer the stew to an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to maintain moisture.
- Heat for 20 to 25 minutes or until fully warmed through.
Tips for Optimal Flavor
- Always reheat only the portions you need to prevent repeated reheating that can degrade the texture and flavor.
- Add a touch of fresh seasoning or garnish (e.g., chopped parsley or a dash of smoked paprika) after reheating to bring back the vibrant taste.
These storage and reheating tips ensure that your Hoosier Stew stays as satisfying as the day you made it, perfect for enjoying leftovers or preparing meals in advance.
Conclusion
Hoosier Stew is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of hearty, wholesome flavors that bring people together. Its simplicity, paired with fresh ingredients and comforting aromas, makes it a timeless favorite in any kitchen.
Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or storing it for busy weeknights, this dish offers both convenience and satisfaction. Let’s embrace the charm of Midwest cooking and share this delicious tradition with those we love.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hoosier Stew?
Hoosier Stew is a comforting, one-pot meal originating from Indiana, made with smoked sausage, potatoes, green beans, and sweet corn. It’s a traditional Midwest dish that emphasizes simplicity and uses farm-fresh ingredients.
What are the key ingredients in Hoosier Stew?
The essential ingredients include smoked sausage, russet potatoes, fresh green beans, sweet corn, a medium onion, low-sodium chicken broth, and seasonings like garlic powder, thyme, and smoked paprika. Optional garnishes like parsley or Parmesan cheese can enhance flavor and presentation.
How long does it take to make Hoosier Stew?
The total cook time for Hoosier Stew is approximately 43-48 minutes, including preparation, sautéing, and simmering to achieve tender, flavorful results.
Can I use frozen vegetables in Hoosier Stew?
Yes, frozen green beans and sweet corn can be used if fresh ones are unavailable. Be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly to account for the texture differences.
What equipment is needed to make Hoosier Stew?
You’ll need a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, a cutting board, a chef’s knife, measuring cups and spoons, a wooden spoon or spatula, a colander, and a vegetable peeler for smooth preparation.
Can Hoosier Stew be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep ingredients ahead by peeling and chopping vegetables and storing them in airtight containers. This helps streamline the cooking process.
How do I store leftover Hoosier Stew?
Cool the stew to room temperature, then store it in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months for extended storage.
How can I reheat Hoosier Stew?
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. For smaller portions, use a microwave, reheating in 1-minute intervals. In the oven, cover the stew and heat at 325°F until warmed through.
What are some serving suggestions for Hoosier Stew?
Garnish with fresh parsley or Parmesan cheese for added flavor. Serve with crusty bread, cornbread, or a side salad. Pair with beverages like iced tea or apple cider for a complete meal.
Is Hoosier Stew suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Hoosier Stew can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free smoked sausage and ensuring the chicken broth and seasonings are certified gluten-free. Always double-check ingredient labels.