Gentle Beef and Vegetable Stew for Small Portions
This gentle beef and vegetable stew is perfect when you want a warm, comforting meal without any fuss. It’s made in a small portion ideal for one or two people, with soft, tender ingredients that are easy to enjoy.
Cooking a stew like this means you get a delicious meal that feels hearty but is gentle on digestion. It is simple to prepare in a small batch so you avoid waste and enjoy soft, tender ingredients that are easy to eat.
Making meals for one or two can sometimes feel like a challenge, but a small-batch stew is a perfect choice. The slow cooking and fresh vegetables keep it light on the stomach while still being filling and comforting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 6 ounces lean beef stew meat, cut into small cubes
- 1 small carrot, peeled and sliced thinly
- ½ cup peeled and diced potato (Yukon Gold or red potato)
- ½ small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste (use lightly)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
You can serve this stew with a small slice of soft bread or a side of mashed potatoes for extra comfort.
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Heat the olive oil in a small pot over medium heat and add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking gently until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add the beef cubes and cook lightly until browned on all sides, about 4 minutes, keeping the heat moderate to preserve tenderness.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, add the carrot and potato pieces, and stir in the dried thyme or rosemary.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the pot and cook on low heat for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Check that the beef is very tender and the vegetables are soft, then season lightly with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat, let sit for a few minutes, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Tips and Easy Variations
Make it Extra Tender
- Cut the meat into smaller pieces to break down fibers faster.
- Cook a little longer on low heat to soften the beef further.
- Use lean cuts and peel vegetables for a softer texture.
Flavor without Salt
- Rely on dried thyme or fresh parsley instead of extra salt.
- Swap vegetable broth for mild beef broth for a richer taste if desired.
- Add a pinch of ground cumin for a gentle warmth without extra sodium.
Gentle Variations
- Add soft green peas during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Use peeled zucchini or sweet potato as alternative vegetables.
- Omit garlic or replace with a small pinch of garlic powder if preferred.
Quick Comfort Tips
- Peel vegetables for smoother, easier-to-eat pieces.
- Keep the simmer gentle to maintain tender meat and soft veg.
- Adjust herbs rather than salt to control sodium.
Storage and Leftovers
Fridge
Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to preserve tenderness and freshness.
Freezer
Portion into small airtight containers and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until just warmed to keep the meat tender and avoid overcooking.
Conclusion
Give this gentle beef and vegetable stew a try when you want a comforting, easy meal in a small portion. Its soft textures and simple steps make cooking enjoyable without extra effort.
This stew is a wonderful way to enjoy a classic dish made gentle for everyday cooking and is easy to adapt to your taste or dietary needs.
FAQ
Can I use other vegetables?▶
Yes, soft vegetables like peeled zucchini or peeled sweet potatoes work well; add them according to their cooking time so they stay tender.
How can I make it even softer?▶
Cook longer on low heat, cut meat and vegetables into smaller pieces, and peel vegetables to create a smoother, easier-to-eat texture.
