Name: Cowboy Stew: A Hearty, Easy Recipe with Turkey Bacon and Beef
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 6 slices bacon (not thick-cut, chopped); 1 package kielbasa (cut into ½-inch slices); 1 lb. ground beef ((80/20)); 1 yellow onion (chopped); 3 cloves garlic (finely chopped); 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 cans ranch-style beans (or chili beans, with their liquid); 1 can sweet corn (drained); 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilis (with their liquid); 3 Tbsp. all-purpose flour; 1 Tbsp. chili powder; 1 tsp. cumin; 1 tsp. kosher salt; 1/2 tsp. black pepper; Chopped fresh parsley (for serving)

Introduction to Cowboy Stew

What is Cowboy Stew and why you'll love it?

Cowboy stew, a hearty and comforting one-pot meal, embodies the essence of home-cooked goodness. With a blend of savory ingredients like Turkey bacon, ground beef, and a medley of flavorful beans, this dish is not just filling but also bursting with taste. Perfect for chilly evenings, it's a staple among ranchers and families alike, bringing warmth and nourishment to any table.

You'll adore cowboy stew for its simplicity and robust flavors. Each ingredient harmonizes beautifully, offering a satisfying experience that will leave you and your guests wanting more. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; feel free to toss in extra veggies or your favorite seasonings. If you're can’t get enough of hearty comfort foods, consider reading more about the health benefits of beans from the American Bean Board and how they enhance a balanced diet.

Making cowboy stew is also a great way to connect with friends and family over culinary creations. Imagine gathering around the table, sharing memories, and enjoying a dish that warms not just your stomach but your heart. So roll up your sleeves and get ready for a delicious journey that celebrates the spirit of the wild west!

Ingredients for Cowboy Stew

Creating a hearty cowboy stew is all about using fresh and wholesome ingredients that come together to create a comforting dish. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a busy young professional, this ingredient list covers everything you’ll need to whip up a delicious meal!

Essential components list

6 slices turkey bacon, chopped
1 (12- to 14-ounce) package kielbasa or chicken ham, cut into ½-inch slices
1 lb. ground beef (80/20 for the best flavor)
1 yellow onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
3 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
1 Tbsp. chili powder
1 tsp. cumin
1 tsp. kosher salt
½ tsp. black pepper
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 (15-ounce) cans ranch-style beans or chili beans, with their liquid
1 (15-ounce) can sweet corn, drained
1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilis, with their liquid
2 russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
Chopped fresh parsley for serving

Feeling ready to get cooking? Embrace the flavors and let your kitchen do the talking! For more cooking tips and tutorials, check out resources such as Bon Appétit or Food Network for inspiration and ideas.

Preparing Cowboy Stew

Making a hearty cowboy stew is not just about following a recipe—it's an experience that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and creates a sense of comfort and community. Ready to delve into the step-by-step process? Let’s get into it!

Cook the Turkey Bacon

Start by heating a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Slice the turkey bacon into bite-sized pieces, and add it to the pot. You'll want to cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and crispy. The goal here is to render out that delicious fat, which will give your stew a rich flavor. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate and set it aside.

Add the Chicken Ham

Next, toss in the chicken ham. Cut it into half-inch slices and allow it to cook in the leftover fat for about 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want to achieve a nice browning on the outside, which adds texture and flavor to your cowboy stew. After it’s lightly browned, take it off the heat and put it alongside the bacon. Drain all but 1 tablespoon of the grease, keeping just enough for sautéing the other ingredients.

Brown the Ground Beef and Sauté the Vegetables

Now, it’s time for the star of the show—add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the pot. Stir frequently, breaking the meat apart with your spoon, until it’s browned (about 5 to 7 minutes). The onions should become translucent and fragrant, filling your kitchen with that homey scent. This is the moment where the base flavor of your stew really starts to develop.

Mix in the Spices and Flour

Once your meat and veggies are nicely browned, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, chili powder, cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper. This not only thickens your cowboy stew but also adds a depth of flavor. Stir everything together for about 1 to 2 minutes until the flour starts to smell toasty—that’s the aroma you want wafting through your kitchen!

Combine the Broth and Other Ingredients

Next up, pour in the chicken broth along with the beans (including their liquid), drained corn, diced tomatoes with green chilis (with their liquid), and cubed russet potatoes. Stir everything well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once it's bubbling away, return the bacon and chicken ham back to the pot.

Simmer the Stew to Perfection

Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer. You’ll want to cook the stew for about an hour or until the potatoes are tender. This step is crucial for melding all those incredible flavors. Before serving, give it a final stir and enjoy the rich, comforting aroma that fills your kitchen.

The result? A hearty and flavorful cowboy stew that will not only warm you up but also impress your friends and family during gatherings. Get ready to dig in! If you're interested in more cooking tips, check out The Kitchn for inspiration.

Variations on Cowboy Stew

Veggie-packed cowboy stew

If you want to up the health quotient, try a veggie-packed version of this classic cowboy stew. Simply toss in a variety of your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini. This not only adds vibrant colors but also boosts the nutritional value. You can experiment with seasonal veggies to make it even more interesting! Cooking up a storm? Check out The Benefits of Eating More Vegetables, which highlights why more greens are essential for your health.

Spicy cowboy stew

Are you a fan of heat? Spice things up with a spicy cowboy stew! Add diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or even some cayenne pepper to take it up a notch. If you want a smoky flavor, consider tossing in some chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. This fiery twist can really energize your gatherings. For those keen on learning more about incorporating spices into your culinary adventures, Spices 101 offers great insights on best practices!

Cooking notes for Cowboy Stew

Tips for enhancing flavors

When crafting your Cowboy Stew, consider these simple tips to elevate its taste:

Spice it up: Don't shy away from additional spices! A dash of smoked paprika or some crushed red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.
Fresh herbs: Incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or cilantro can brighten the overall flavor. Just toss them in towards the end for a fresh burst.
Umami boosters: For deeper flavors, you can stir in a tablespoon of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce along with the broth.
Texture variety: Adding a mix of beans, such as pinto or black beans, not only increases nutritional value but adds a delightful texture.

Feel free to experiment and make this stew your own!

Serving Suggestions for Cowboy Stew

Best Pairings and Garnishes

When it comes to enjoying cowboy stew, a few simple pairings can elevate your meal to new heights. Try serving it alongside crusty bread or buttermilk cornbread for a comforting touch that’s perfect for scooping up every last bite. A fresh green salad dressed with a zesty vinaigrette not only adds a vibrant contrast but also balances the rich flavors of the stew.

For garnishes, consider topping each bowl with chopped green onions or a dollop of sour cream to add creaminess. A sprinkle of fresh parsley gives a burst of color and freshness. Don’t forget to serve some hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick!

Feel free to check out more on how to enhance your meals with simple additions to find inspiration beyond cowboy stew!

Tips for Making the Perfect Cowboy Stew

Advice for Meat Selection and Seasoning

When crafting your cowboy stew, the right meat selection and seasoning can elevate the dish to new heights. Opt for Turkey Bacon and Chicken Ham, which add a savory depth while keeping it lighter. For beef, choose ground beef that’s 80/20 for a good balance of flavor and juiciness.

Seasoning is crucial! Use fresh spices like chili powder and cumin to amplify the taste. Don’t shy away from adjusting the kosher salt and black pepper to suit your palate. For a deeper flavor, consider letting the stew simmer longer; this allows the rich flavors to meld beautifully. Check out websites like Epicurious for more seasoning ideas!

Time details for Cowboy Stew

Preparation time

Getting started on your Cowboy Stew doesn't take much time at all! You can expect to spend around 15 minutes prepping your ingredients. Chopping veggies, slicing turkey bacon, and measuring out spices will have you ready to cook in a jiffy.

Cooking time

The cooking part is where the magic happens! Your hearty stew will simmer for about 1 hour after you bring everything to a boil. This allows all those rich flavors to come together beautifully.

Total time

In total, you'll spend about 1 hour and 15 minutes preparing and cooking your delicious Cowboy Stew. It's an excellent option for busy weeknights or a cozy gathering with friends. Perfect for those who love to create mouthwatering, comfort food—without spending all day in the kitchen!

For more meal ideas that are easy to whip up, check out resources like the American Heart Association's recipe page for healthy and simple meals.

Nutritional Information for Cowboy Stew

Calories

A hearty serving of Cowboy Stew typically contains around 350-400 calories. This makes it a filling option for lunch or dinner without completely derailing your nutrition goals.

Protein

Packed with various protein sources, this dish offers approximately 25-30 grams of protein per serving. Between the turkey bacon, kielbasa, and ground beef, you’re set to power through your day with enough energy.

Sodium

While deliciously savory, be mindful that each serving may have 800-1,000 mg of sodium. Opting for low-sodium broth can help keep this number in check, allowing you to enjoy your Cowboy Stew without worrying too much about your salt intake. For more tips on managing sodium in your diet, check out resources like the CDC’s sodium guidelines.

With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, Cowboy Stew is not just a comfort food; it's a balanced meal. Customize it to fit your dietary needs and enjoy a delightful, nutritious experience!

FAQs about Cowboy Stew

Can I make it in advance?

Absolutely! One of the great aspects of cowboy stew is that it tastes even better the next day. Feel free to prepare it a day or two ahead of your gathering. Just let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge.

How do I store leftovers?

To keep your cowboy stew delicious for days, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for up to four days. If you want to enjoy it longer, consider freezing it! Just freeze in individual portions, and when you’re ready to reheat, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight.

What are good side dishes to serve?

Pairing accompaniments can elevate your meal! Some fantastic options to serve alongside cowboy stew include:

Cornbread: The sweet, warm texture complements the spiciness of the stew.
Coleslaw: A refreshing crunch balances the hearty stew.
Rice: A simple side, but it soaks up the stew's flavors beautifully.

Experiment and find your favorite combinations! For more tips, check out Epicurious for inspiration.

Conclusion on Cowboy Stew

Final thoughts on enjoying homemade meals

There's something truly special about cowboy stew, isn't there? With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it brings comfort and warmth to any table. Homemade meals not only nourish our bodies but also create unforgettable moments with loved ones. So, gather around, share stories, and relish the satisfaction of preparing this delicious dish from scratch! For more inspiration on wholesome recipes, consider checking out this collection of family favorites.