This hearty Texas Cowboy Stew is a classic comfort dish perfect for chilly nights. Bursting with robust flavors from ground beef, kielbasa sausage, and a variety of vegetables, it's a one-pot wonder that's sure to satisfy.
Most ingredients for this recipe are staples you may already have in your pantry. However, the kielbasa sausage and canned tomatoes with green chili peppers might need a trip to the supermarket. Kielbasa is a Polish sausage available in most meat departments, and the canned tomatoes with green chilies can be found in the canned goods aisle.
Ingredients for the Texas Cowboy Stew
Ground beef: The base of the stew, providing a rich, meaty flavor.
Kielbasa sausage: Adds a smoky flavor to the stew.
Garlic cloves: Provides a pungent flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the stew.
Tomatoes: They add a tangy flavor and make the stew hearty.
Baking potatoes: They thicken the stew and add a creamy texture.
Pinto beans: Adds protein and fiber to the stew.
Whole kernel corn: Adds sweetness and texture.
Tomatoes with green chile peppers: Gives the stew a spicy kick.
Mixed vegetables: Adds color, flavor, and nutrition.
Water: Thins the stew to the desired consistency.
Ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
Chili powder: Gives the stew a spicy depth of flavor.
Salt and pepper: Enhances the overall flavors of the stew.
One reader, Gertruda Morales says:
This Texas Cowboy Stew recipe is a game-changer! The blend of ground beef, kielbasa, and hearty vegetables creates a rich and flavorful dish that's perfect for chilly nights. The spices add a nice kick, and the whole family loved it. It's now a regular on our dinner menu!
Key Techniques for Making Texas Cowboy Stew
How to brown ground beef and sausage: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, crumble the ground beef and sausage, stirring occasionally until the meat is no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease before transferring the cooked meat to a large pot.
How to simmer stew: After adding all the ingredients to the pot, cover it and let the stew simmer over medium-low heat for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
How to season with cumin and chili powder: When adding the cumin and chili powder to the stew, sprinkle them evenly over the mixture and then stir to incorporate the seasonings thoroughly.
How to serve stew: Ladle the finished stew into bowls and serve it hot, optionally garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream.
How To Make Texas Cowboy Stew
This Texas cowboy stew is a hearty meal to prepare for a weekend dinner. Filled with flavorful ingredients and tastes best when it simmers in a slow cooker.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2lbsground beef
- 16ozkielbasa sausage,sliced into ½-inch pieces, 2 packages
- 2garlic cloves,chopped
- 1onion,chopped
- 14½oztomatoes,peeled and diced, drained, 2 cans
- 4medium baking potatoes,peeled and diced
- 15ozpinto beans,with liquid, 2 cans
- 15⅕ozwhole kernel corn,with liquid, 2 cans
- 14½oztomatoes with green chile peppers,diced, with liquid, 1 can
- 10ozmixed vegetables,frozen, 1 package
- 4cupswater
- 2tspground cumin
- 2tspchili powder
- salt and pepper,to taste
Instructions
-
Crumble the ground beef into a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage, garlic, and onion.
-
Cook and stir until the meat is no longer pink. Drain off grease and transfer the contents of the skillet to a large pot.
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Pour the tomatoes into the pot with the meat and stir in the potatoes, pinto beans, corn, diced tomatoes with chilies, mixed vegetables, and water.
-
Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cover and simmer over medium-low heat for at least 1 hour.
-
Stir occasionally. Serve when ready.
Nutrition
- Calories: 663.22kcal
- Fat: 31.13g
- Saturated Fat: 10.68g
- Trans Fat: 1.12g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 12.91g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.18g
- Carbohydrates: 61.15g
- Fiber: 11.38g
- Sugar: 9.08g
- Protein: 37.24g
- Cholesterol: 96.16mg
- Sodium: 1227.61mg
- Calcium: 117.41mg
- Potassium: 1820.30mg
- Iron: 6.74mg
- Vitamin A: 230.73µg
- Vitamin C: 77.73mg
Helpful Technique for Preparing Texas Cowboy Stew
When preparing your Texas Cowboy Stew, it's important to remember that the flavors develop over time. Allowing the stew to simmer for at least an hour not only ensures that the potatoes and other vegetables are cooked through, but also allows the spices and flavors from the meat to infuse into the broth, creating a rich, hearty flavor. For an even deeper flavor, consider preparing the stew a day in advance and reheating it when ready to serve. The extra time will allow the flavors to meld together even more.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Cowboy Stew
Prep ahead: Chop and prepare ingredients the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Use canned: Utilize canned beans and vegetables to cut down on prep time without sacrificing flavor.
One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that can be cooked in a single pot to minimize cleanup and streamline the cooking process.
Batch cooking: Prepare a large batch of stew and freeze individual portions for quick and convenient meals in the future.
Slow cooker magic: Consider using a slow cooker to simmer the stew throughout the day, allowing you to attend to other tasks while it cooks.
Substitute Ingredients For Texas Cowboy Stew Recipe
ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner alternative to ground beef, and it can be used as a healthier option in the stew.
kielbasa sausage - Substitute with smoked turkey sausage: Smoked turkey sausage provides a similar smoky flavor and texture to kielbasa sausage, but with less fat and calories.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic cloves, providing a similar flavor without the need for chopping or mincing.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor compared to onions and can be used as a substitute to add a more delicate taste to the stew.
tomatoes - Substitute with canned tomato sauce: Canned tomato sauce can be used as a substitute for fresh tomatoes, providing a smooth and concentrated tomato flavor to the stew.
baking potatoes - Substitute with sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes can be used as a healthier alternative to baking potatoes, adding a touch of sweetness to the stew.
pinto beans - Substitute with black beans: Black beans can be used as a substitute for pinto beans, providing a similar texture and flavor to the stew.
whole kernel corn - Substitute with frozen corn: Frozen corn can be used as a substitute for whole kernel corn, providing a convenient and readily available option.
tomatoes with green chile peppers - Substitute with diced tomatoes and green chilies: Using separate canned diced tomatoes and green chilies can replicate the flavor and heat of tomatoes with green chile peppers.
mixed vegetables - Substitute with frozen mixed vegetables: Frozen mixed vegetables can be used as a substitute for fresh mixed vegetables, providing convenience and a variety of vegetables in the stew.
water - Substitute with beef or vegetable broth: Using broth instead of water can enhance the flavor of the stew and add depth to the overall taste.
ground cumin - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can be used as a substitute for ground cumin, providing a smoky flavor and depth to the stew.
chili powder - Substitute with ancho chili powder: Ancho chili powder can be used as a substitute for regular chili powder, adding a slightly sweet and smoky flavor to the stew.
Presentation Tips for Texas Cowboy Stew
Elevate the plating: When presenting the Texas Cowboy Stew, focus on creating a visually appealing plate. Use a large, shallow bowl to showcase the layers of ingredients and their vibrant colors. The stew should be the star of the plate, so ensure it is the focal point of the presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of freshness and color to the dish by garnishing with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley. Sprinkle it on top of the stew just before serving to enhance the overall visual appeal and add a pop of flavor.
Serve with a side of cornbread: Accompany the Texas Cowboy Stew with a side of warm, freshly baked cornbread. Cut the cornbread into rustic squares and arrange them on the plate alongside the stew to provide a delightful contrast in textures and flavors.
Use rustic tableware: Opt for earthy, rustic tableware such as wooden or ceramic plates and bowls to complement the hearty nature of the Texas Cowboy Stew. The use of natural textures and tones will enhance the overall presentation and create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Incorporate a drizzle of sour cream: Before serving, add a dollop of sour cream on top of the stew and gently swirl it into an elegant design using a toothpick or small spoon. The creamy addition not only adds a luxurious touch but also balances the flavors of the stew.
Sprinkle with a dash of smoked paprika: Just before serving, lightly dust the stew with a sprinkle of smoked paprika. This not only adds a subtle smoky flavor but also creates a visually striking contrast against the rich colors of the stew.
Arrange with a pop of color: Consider adding a vibrant element to the plate, such as a small side salad of mixed greens or a few slices of fresh avocado. The addition of a pop of color will enhance the overall visual appeal and provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew.
Use a unique serving vessel: For a creative presentation, consider serving the Texas Cowboy Stew in individual cast-iron skillets or mini Dutch ovens. This unconventional approach adds a touch of charm and personality to the presentation, making it a memorable dining experience.
Essential Tools for Making Cowboy Stew
Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile kitchen knife used for a variety of food preparation tasks.
Skillet: A frying pan with a flat bottom and sloping sides, used for frying, searing, and sautéing.
Large pot: A deep cooking vessel used for boiling, simmering, and stewing ingredients.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Texas Cowboy Stew
Allow the texas cowboy stew to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the formation of condensation, which can lead to spoilage and freezer burn.
For short-term storage, transfer the cooled stew to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to meld and develop over time, making the stew even more delicious when reheated.
To freeze the stew, portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving about an inch of headspace to allow for expansion during freezing. Label the containers with the date and contents for easy identification.
Remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing to minimize the risk of freezer burn. If using containers, place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the stew before sealing the lid to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Freeze the texas cowboy stew for up to 3 months for optimal quality. While it will remain safe to eat beyond this point, the texture and flavor may begin to deteriorate.
To reheat the frozen stew, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. Once thawed, reheat the stew in a pot on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
If you're short on time, you can also reheat the frozen stew directly in a pot on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to ensure even heating and to prevent scorching. This method may take longer, but it's still an effective way to enjoy your delicious texas cowboy stew.
How To Reheat Leftover Texas Cowboy Stew
Reheat the leftover texas cowboy stew in a large pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until it reaches the desired temperature. This method ensures even heating and allows the flavors to meld together once again.
For a quicker reheating option, transfer individual portions of the stew into microwave-safe bowls. Cover the bowls with a damp paper towel to prevent splattering and to help retain moisture. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the stew is heated through.
If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can reheat the stew in a covered pot in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), transfer the stew to an oven-safe dish, cover with a lid or foil, and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. Stir the stew occasionally to ensure even heating.
For a stovetop reheating method that adds a slight char and smoky flavor to the vegetables and meat, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter, and then add individual portions of the stew. Stir frequently until the stew is heated through and slightly caramelized on the edges.
If the leftover stew has thickened too much during storage, you can thin it out while reheating. Simply add small amounts of beef broth, water, or tomato juice to the pot or bowl while reheating, stirring well to incorporate the added liquid. Adjust the seasonings as needed.
Interesting Fact About Texas Cowboy Stew
Texas Cowboy Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that originated from the cowboy culture in Texas. This stew is a fusion of various ingredients such as ground beef, kielbasa sausage, tomatoes, potatoes, pinto beans, and corn, creating a rich and satisfying meal. It is a perfect example of comfort food and is often enjoyed during gatherings and events in Texas. The dish reflects the resourcefulness of cowboys, who used readily available ingredients to create a delicious and filling meal while out on the range.
Is Making Cowboy Stew at Home Cost-Effective?
This Texas Cowboy Stew recipe is a cost-effective option for households. With a hearty mix of ground beef, kielbasa sausage, and a variety of vegetables, it offers substantial servings at an approximate cost of $20. The blend of flavors and textures makes it a satisfying meal for the family. The versatility of the ingredients also allows for easy customization based on personal preferences and dietary needs. Overall Verdict: 8/10
Is Texas Cowboy Stew Healthy or Unhealthy?
This Texas Cowboy Stew recipe, while hearty and flavorful, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:
- High in saturated fat due to the ground beef and sausage
- Significant sodium content from the canned vegetables and added salt
- Relatively low in fiber, despite the presence of beans and vegetables
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Replace half of the ground beef with lean ground turkey or extra vegetables to reduce saturated fat
- Opt for low-sodium canned vegetables or use fresh produce to control sodium intake
- Increase the amount of beans and vegetables to boost fiber content
- Use whole grain pasta or rice instead of potatoes for additional fiber and nutrients
- Reduce the amount of added salt and rely on spices for flavor
By incorporating leaner proteins, fresh vegetables, and whole grains, you can transform this stew into a more balanced and nutritious meal. Experiment with different spice combinations to maintain a robust flavor profile without relying on excessive salt. Remember, small changes can make a significant difference in the overall healthiness of a dish.
Editor's Opinion on This Cowboy Stew Recipe
This Texas Cowboy Stew recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together a variety of ingredients to create a satisfying meal. The combination of ground beef, kielbasa sausage, and an array of vegetables and spices results in a rich and comforting stew. The use of cumin and chili powder adds a delightful depth of flavor, while the addition of potatoes, pinto beans, and corn provides a hearty and wholesome texture. This stew is perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, and its robust flavors are sure to please the palate.
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Why trust this Texas Cowboy Stew Recipe:
This recipe is a trusted classic, perfected over generations. The combination of ground beef, kielbasa sausage, and pinto beans creates a rich and hearty base, while the addition of potatoes and mixed vegetables adds depth and texture. The use of cumin and chili powder infuses the stew with warm, aromatic flavors. With a balance of tomatoes and corn, this stew promises a satisfying and flavorful experience. Trust in the time-tested ingredients and cooking methods to deliver a delicious, comforting meal.
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