This comforting Pumpkin Stew is the ultimate cozy meal for chilly evenings. Tender chunks of beef round slow-simmer with aromatic thyme and black pepper, creating a rich, savory broth. The sweetness of fresh pumpkin cubes melds perfectly with the savory beef, while green peas add a pop of color and freshness. The true star of the dish is the presentation: the thickened stew is spooned into a hollowed-out pumpkin shell that has been roasted until tender. It’s a visually stunning centerpiece that feels special yet is straightforward to prepare. Perfect for fall gatherings or a hearty family dinner, this dish balances earthy flavors with a beautiful, edible vessel.
Pumpkin Stew
Description
This comforting Pumpkin Stew is the ultimate cozy meal for chilly evenings. Tender chunks of beef round slow-simmer with aromatic thyme and black pepper, creating a rich, savory broth. The sweetness of fresh pumpkin cubes melds perfectly with the savory beef, while green peas add a pop of color and freshness. The true star of the dish is the presentation: the thickened stew is spooned into a hollowed-out pumpkin shell that has been roasted until tender. It&# 226;ÂÂs a visually stunning centerpiece that feels special yet is straightforward to prepare. Perfect for fall gatherings or a hearty family dinner, this dish balances earthy flavors with a beautiful, edible vessel.Ingredients
Directions
-
Cut the beef into 1-inch cubes and pat dry.
-
In a 4-quart Dutch oven, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
-
Brown the beef cubes in batches until seared on all sides; remove and set aside.
-
Reduce heat to medium; add coarsely chopped onion and celery to the pot.
-
Sauté the vegetables until softened and lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
-
Return the beef to the pot; stir in 4 cups water, salt, dried thyme, and black pepper.
-
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
-
Simmer covered for 1 hour until the beef is beginning to tenderize.
-
Meanwhile, cut a 2-inch lid from the top of the pumpkin and scoop out seeds.
-
Trim the bottom of the pumpkin slightly so it stands flat; set aside.
-
Peel the pumpkin lid and trimmings, then cut into 1-inch cubes.
-
Add the pumpkin cubes to the simmering beef stew.
-
Continue cooking covered for 30 minutes until pumpkin and beef are tender.
-
Preheat oven to 350ðF (175ðC).
-
Place the hollowed pumpkin shell on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes.
-
In a small bowl, whisk 1/4 cup flour into 1 cup cold water until smooth.
-
Stir the flour slurry and frozen green peas into the stew.
-
Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
-
Carefully spoon the hot stew into the roasted pumpkin shell.
-
Serve immediately, ensuring the pumpkin shell is handled with care as it will be hot.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 425.6kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 25.5g40%
- Saturated Fat 10.2g51%
- Cholesterol 132.8mg45%
- Sodium 122.6mg6%
- Total Carbohydrate 0.0g0%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 0.0g
- Protein 44.3g89%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.