Poor Man’s Stew
An Engaging Introduction
Are you looking for a delicious and budget-friendly meal that won’t break the bank? Let me introduce you to Poor Man’s Stew—a hearty dish that costs just $6.24 to make and serves up to five people! With simple ingredients like ground beef, russet potatoes, carrots, onions, and a touch of garlic, this recipe is simmered to perfection in a slow cooker. Inspired by the classic film The Princess Bride, this stew is reminiscent of the one Fezzik made to help sober up Inigo Montoya. Whether you’re a fan of the movie or just love a good stew, this dish is sure to please the whole family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly budget-friendly and perfect for feeding a crowd.
- The slow cooker does all the work, making it an easy meal to prepare.
- It’s a comforting and hearty dish, great for any time of year.
- Inspired by a beloved movie, it comes with a touch of nostalgia.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 5-quart or larger slow cooker
- Knife and cutting board
- Skillet for browning the beef
- Small bowl for mixing
- Mixing spoon
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef, browned and drained
- 1.5 lbs potatoes, diced large
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 (6-oz.) can tomato paste
- 2 cups water
- 1 tsp. salt
- ¼ tsp. pepper
- 1 tsp. onion powder
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Add the cooked ground beef, potatoes, carrots, onions, and garlic to a 5-quart or larger slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the tomato paste, water, salt, pepper, onion powder, and oregano. Pour this mixture over everything in the slow cooker and stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours, resisting the temptation to lift the lid during cooking.
- Serve with buttered sandwich bread for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips for Success
- Make sure to brown the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker to enhance the flavor.
- Dice the potatoes into large chunks to avoid them turning mushy during cooking.
- For a thicker stew, you can mash some of the potatoes before serving.
Additional Tips and Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or green beans for more color and nutrition. If you prefer a spicier stew, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This stew is packed with protein and fiber, making it a filling and satisfying meal. With its simple and wholesome ingredients, it’s a great choice for those looking to eat well on a budget.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of meat? Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives.
Can I make this stew on the stovetop? Yes, simply simmer all the ingredients in a large pot over low heat for about an hour, stirring occasionally.
How long will leftovers last? Stored in an airtight container, leftovers will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
Now that you have everything you need to make this comforting Poor Man’s Stew, I invite you to give it a try. It’s a delightful way to enjoy a cozy meal while embracing a bit of movie magic. Don’t forget to share your experience and any creative twists you add to this classic dish. Enjoy!
