Poor Man’s Stew Stove Top Recipe Easy and Delicious

When times are tight and your pantry is running low, a comforting, filling meal that doesn’t break the bank is exactly what you need. Enter the Poor Man’s Stew, a humble yet hearty dish that warms the soul and satisfies the belly.

This stovetop recipe combines simple, affordable ingredients that come together in a rich, flavorful stew perfect for weeknights, leftovers, or feeding a crowd without stress. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, how flexible the ingredients are, and how much satisfaction you get from a meal that costs next to nothing but tastes like a million bucks.

This recipe is a perfect example of resourceful cooking, transforming basic staples into a delicious comfort food classic. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook looking for budget-friendly ideas, this Poor Man’s Stew will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.

Plus, it’s packed with hearty vegetables and protein, making it both nutritious and deeply satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Poor Man’s Stew is more than just a budget-friendly meal; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients and easy cooking techniques that yield big flavors. Here’s why this recipe shines:

• Economical: Uses affordable pantry staples and seasonal vegetables, making it perfect for tight budgets.
• Flexible: Easily adaptable with what you have on hand, whether that’s different veggies, meats, or spices.
• Hearty and Filling: A great source of comfort food that’s perfect for chilly evenings or meal prep.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup and easy stovetop cooking make it a great choice for busy cooks.
• Nutritious: Balanced with proteins, carbs, and veggies for a wholesome meal.

This recipe is ideal for anyone looking to stretch their food dollar without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) inexpensive stew beef or chicken thighs, diced (optional for vegetarian version)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 large carrots, sliced
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 can (14 oz/400g) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups (1 liter) beef or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 cup frozen peas or green beans

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle for serving

Instructions

1. Heat the oil: Place your pot over medium heat and add the vegetable oil. Once hot, add the diced stew beef or chicken if using. Brown the meat on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. If making vegetarian, skip this step and heat the oil for the onion.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes.
3. Add the vegetables: Stir in the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to combine flavors.
4. Add tomatoes and broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juice and the broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
5. Season the stew: Add the dried thyme, paprika, bay leaf, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently.
6. Simmer: Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the meat is tender and vegetables are cooked through.
7. Add optional veggies: If using frozen peas or green beans, stir them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking to keep them vibrant and fresh.
8. Adjust seasoning: Taste the stew and add more salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
9. Serve hot: Remove the bay leaf and ladle the stew into bowls. Enjoy warm!

Tips & Variations

“Don’t hesitate to swap out vegetables based on what’s in your fridge or what’s on sale. Cabbage, turnips, or parsnips work wonderfully in this stew.”

• Make it vegetarian: Omit the meat and use vegetable broth for a delicious meat-free version.
• Use canned beans: Add a can of drained beans like kidney or cannellini for extra protein and fiber.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a subtle kick.
• Thicken the stew: Mix 1 tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with cold water and stir into the stew during the last 10 minutes to thicken the broth.
• Leftovers: This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutrition varies based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Serving Suggestions

Poor Man’s Stew is wonderfully versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

• Serve with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls for dipping into the flavorful broth.
• Make it a complete meal by adding a simple green salad, such as a Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.
• For a heartier option, spoon the stew over cooked rice or mashed potatoes.
• Try it alongside other comforting dishes like the Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food for a cozy, warming feast.

Conclusion

The Poor Man’s Stew is a testament to how delicious, hearty meals don’t need to be complicated or expensive. With just a handful of simple ingredients and basic kitchen equipment, you can create a stew that warms your body and soul.

Its flexibility means you can adapt it to what you have on hand, making it a perfect recipe for busy weeknights, budget-conscious cooks, or anyone craving a comforting bowl of goodness.

Whether you prefer it meaty or vegetarian, this stew is a nourishing and satisfying choice that will keep you coming back for more. For more budget-friendly and delicious recipes, be sure to explore other dishes like the Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or the Budget Bytes Recipe Thai Noodles Vegetarian and Delicious.

Happy cooking!

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