One-Pot Wonder: Amish Farmhouse Beef Stew for Cozy Nights

Amish Farmhouse Beef Stew is a hearty, comforting dish that embodies the spirit of traditional Amish cooking. This stew is perfect for a cozy family meal, especially on chilly days. You can easily tailor it to your taste by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Here’s how to prepare this delicious stew.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cups hot water
• 2 cups tomato juice (or V8 juice)
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ tablespoon paprika
• 6 carrots, peeled and cut into bite-sized chunks
• 6 potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized chunks (use russet, Yukon Gold, or red potatoes)
• 1 cup fresh garden peas
• ½ cup cold water
• ½ cup flour (for thickening)
• Pinch of ground cloves (optional)

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed beef and brown it for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
2. Add Aromatics and Liquids: Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion, hot water, tomato juice, salt, lemon juice, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, paprika, and cloves (if using). Stir well to combine all ingredients.
3. Simmer the Stew: Cover the pot and let the stew simmer on medium heat for about 2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
4. Incorporate Vegetables: After 2 hours, add the carrots and potatoes to the pot. Cover again and allow it to simmer for an additional hour until the vegetables are tender.
5. Thicken the Stew: In a small bowl, mix the cold water with the flour to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the stew and cook uncovered for another 20 minutes, allowing it to thicken.
6. Final Touches: Just before serving, stir in the fresh garden peas. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
7. Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy it with a slice of rustic bread or over buttered potatoes for a delightful meal.

This Amish Farmhouse Beef Stew not only fills your belly but also warms your heart with its rich flavors and comforting aroma. Feel free to experiment with additional vegetables like corn or green beans based on your preferences!

To enhance the flavor of Amish Farmhouse Beef Stew, consider these unique twists:

1. Add Smoky Flavor: Use a wood stove or cook the stew over an open fire to impart a natural smoky flavor, reminiscent of traditional Amish cooking methods[1].
2. Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Enhance the stew’s aroma and taste by adding fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or marjoram during the simmering process. These herbs can elevate the overall flavor profile significantly[1][3].
3. Include a Splash of Wine: For depth and richness, add a splash of red wine to the stew. This can complement the beef and add complexity to the broth[1].
4. Experiment with Vegetables: Beyond the typical carrots and potatoes, consider adding green beans, mushrooms, or even jalapeño peppers for a hint of spice and additional texture[3][4].
5. Sweeten with Tomato Paste or Sugar: A tablespoon of tomato paste or a touch of sugar can balance the acidity and enhance the stew’s overall flavor. This is particularly effective if using fresh tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes[4][6].

These variations allow for personalization while keeping the essence of the classic Amish farmhouse stew intact.