Chuckwagon Stew

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Servings: 6 Difficulty: Intermediate
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A robust, slow-cooked beef stew with warm spices and tender vegetables, evoking the hearty comfort of the American frontier.
Chuckwagon Stew recipe image
Chuckwagon Stew recipe image
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Chuckwagon Stew

Author: chefs-mate Cooking Method: , Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 6 Calories: 1169.6

Description

This authentic Chuckwagon Stew is a testament to frontier cooking, delivering deep, savory flavors in every spoonful. Tender beef cubes are browned in lard and simmered slowly with a rich blend of tomatoes, onions, and garlic. The secret lies in the unique spice profile: a warm kick from chili powder balanced by aromatic cinnamon and ground cloves, creating a complex, slightly sweet heat that defines this classic American dish. Hearty potatoes and carrots absorb the seasoned broth, becoming soft and flavorful. Perfect for cold evenings, this stew is incredibly satisfying and ideal for family dinners or potlucks. Its a timeless recipe that brings warmth and comfort to the table with minimal fuss but maximum taste.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, paprika, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and 2 teaspoons of salt to create the beef coating mixture.
  2. Toss the beef cubes in the flour mixture until evenly coated, shaking off any excess.
  3. Heat the lard in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  4. Add the coated beef cubes in batches, browning them on all sides without crowding the pan; remove and set aside.
  5. Reduce heat to medium and add the sliced onions and minced garlic to the same pot, cooking until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  6. Return the browned beef to the pot and stir in the can of tomatoes, 3 tablespoons of chili powder, cinnamon, ground cloves, and crushed red peppers.
  7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer gently for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
  8. Add the chopped potatoes and carrots to the stew, stirring to submerge them in the liquid.
  9. Cover and continue to simmer for another 45 minutes, or until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
  10. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed before serving hot.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 1169.6kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 58.0g90%
Saturated Fat 21.8g110%
Cholesterol 222.3mg75%
Sodium 1250.0mg53%
Total Carbohydrate 78.0g26%
Dietary Fiber 22.4g90%
Sugars 26.9g
Protein 87.1g175%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: chuckwagon, beef stew, american cuisine, comfort food, slow cooker, frontier food, spicy beef, tomato stew, potato carrot, hearty meal, family dinner, winter recipe, cinnamon beef, clove seasoning, dutch oven, homestyle, protein rich, budget friendly, meat lover, traditional
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