Cider Stew Recipe: A Hearty, Delicious Classic
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Description:
This Cider Stew, sourced from “Great Recipes From The New York Times,” has earned its place as a cherished favorite in many kitchens. Its rich, flavorful sauce, which pairs perfectly with crusty bread, has made it one of my most requested dishes. During apple season, when fresh cider is abundant, the stew takes on an even more delightful depth of flavor. I’ve tweaked the original recipe slightly, opting for a blend of vegetable or olive oil and butter instead of bacon grease, which enhances the stew without overpowering it. If you decide to double the sauce and seasoning, remember to adjust the onions, oil, butter, and flour accordingly for the best results. Enjoy this comforting classic that never fails to impress!
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons butter
- 3 large onions, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 pounds stewing beef, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 cup apple cider (preferably fresh and unfiltered)
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Fat and Onions:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and butter over medium to medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onions and cook until they become golden brown and fragrant, stirring occasionally. This should take about 10 minutes.
-
Mix the Flour and Seasonings:
- While the onions are cooking, in a small bowl, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Mix thoroughly to ensure even seasoning.
-
Brown the Beef:
- Once the onions are nicely browned, remove them from the pan and set them aside. In the same pan, add the cubed stewing beef. Cook the beef until it’s well-browned on all sides, about 5 to 7 minutes.
-
Combine Ingredients:
- Return the browned onions to the pan with the beef. Sprinkle the prepared flour mixture over the meat and onions. Stir well to coat the meat and onions evenly with the flour mixture.
-
Add Liquids and Simmer:
- Pour in the apple cider and ketchup. Stir to combine everything thoroughly and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally. If necessary, skim any fat that rises to the surface during this simmering period.
-
Add Vegetables:
- After the initial simmering time, add the diced potatoes and sliced carrots to the stew. Continue to simmer for an additional 30 to 45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the beef is fork-tender.
-
Final Adjustments:
- Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. If you doubled the sauce and seasoning ingredients, remember to also double the onions, oil, butter, and flour to maintain balance in the flavors.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Cider Stew hot, ideally with some fresh, crusty bread for dipping. This dish is perfect for a cozy family meal or a special occasion, and it’s sure to be a hit every time you make it.
Notes:
- For an even richer flavor, use high-quality, fresh apple cider. The better the cider, the better the stew will be.
- If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash a portion of the potatoes and carrots against the side of the pot to thicken the sauce, or stir in a slurry of flour and water during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
This Cider Stew is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. Enjoy every bite of this delectable stew, and savor the wonderful blend of flavors! 🍲🍎🥕🍞
