Poor Man’s Stew is a hearty, budget-friendly meal that’s both simple and satisfying. This dish is a staple in many households, especially those looking to stretch their grocery budget without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. The origins of this dish are rooted in frugality and necessity, making it a perfect example of comfort food that’s accessible to everyone.
Growing up, my grandmother often made this stew on cold winter nights. The aroma of the stew simmering in the slow cooker would fill the house, creating an inviting warmth that promised a delicious and filling dinner. The ingredients are straightforward and easy to find, yet they come together to create a meal that feels far more luxurious than its humble origins suggest.
The beauty of Poor Man’s Stew lies in its simplicity. Ground beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions are combined with a flavorful tomato base, seasoned with basic spices, and left to cook slowly, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile, allowing for various substitutions and additions based on what you have on hand.
Ingredients
1 lb. ground beef, browned and drained
1.5 lbs potatoes, diced large
3 carrots, sliced
1 onion, diced
1 garlic clove, minced (I had this on hand already)
1 (6-oz.) can tomato paste
2 cups water
1 tsp. salt
¼ tsp. pepper
1 tsp. onion powder
1 tsp. dried oregano
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Brown the Ground Beef:
Start by browning 1 lb. of ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Break the beef into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned, drain the excess fat and set the beef aside.
Prepare the Vegetables:
Dice 1.5 lbs of potatoes into large chunks. Peel and slice 3 carrots. Dice 1 onion and mince 1 garlic clove. Having all the vegetables prepared beforehand makes the assembly process much quicker and easier.
Step 2: Assemble the Stew
Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker:
In a 5-quart or larger slow cooker, add the browned ground beef, diced potatoes, sliced carrots, diced onion, and minced garlic. This mix of hearty vegetables and meat forms the base of your stew.
Step 3: Make the Tomato Mixture
Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 (6-oz.) can of tomato paste with 2 cups of water until smooth. Add 1 tsp. salt, ¼ tsp. pepper, 1 tsp. onion powder, and 1 tsp. dried oregano to the tomato mixture. This will be your flavorful sauce that ties the stew together.
Pour Over Ingredients:
Pour the prepared tomato mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Stir everything together to ensure that the sauce coats all the meat and vegetables evenly.
Step 4: Cook the Stew
Slow Cook:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on LOW for 6-7 hours. It’s crucial not to open the lid during the cooking time to ensure that the stew cooks evenly and the flavors fully develop.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Final Touches:
After 6-7 hours, check the stew. The potatoes and carrots should be tender, and the flavors should be well melded. Give the stew a good stir.
Serve:
Serve the Poor Man’s Stew hot, preferably with buttered sandwich bread on the side. The bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious tomato sauce.
Variations & Tips
Variations
Vegetarian Version:
Replace the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute for a vegetarian version. Brown the lentils or meat substitute similarly to the ground beef for a rich flavor.
Different Meats:
Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version of the stew. Each meat will bring its unique flavor to the dish.
Additional Vegetables:
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or corn to the stew. This can enhance the nutritional value and add more flavor.
Tips
Consistency:
If the stew seems too thick, you can add a bit more water or beef broth to achieve your desired consistency.
Storage:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This stew also freezes well for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.
Spice it Up:
For those who like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato mixture.
Fresh Herbs:
Adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving can provide a fresh burst of flavor.
Conclusion
Poor Man’s Stew is a testament to the idea that good food doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. It’s a dish that brings comfort and nourishment, perfect for feeding a family on a budget. The combination of ground beef, hearty vegetables, and a savory tomato sauce creates a meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful.
This recipe is appealing not only for its taste but also for its ease of preparation. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious stew simmering away in your slow cooker, ready to greet you after a long day. It’s a perfect example of how minimal ingredients and effort can produce a dish that’s rich in flavor and comfort.
So next time you’re looking for a hearty, budget-friendly meal, give this Poor Man’s Stew a try. It’s sure to become a favorite in your household, just as it has in mine. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction that comes with every bite of this delightful stew.
