beef Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms both your heart and your home, this beef Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes is just the ticket! This recipe has become a cherished favorite in my kitchen because it perfectly balances rich flavors with a touch of sweetness from the apples and prunes. It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you need something hearty and satisfying, but also perfect for family gatherings or chilly weekends when you want to impress your loved ones with minimal effort.

What makes this stew even more delightful is how it fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma as it simmers away. Everyone will gather around the table, eager to dig into this comforting bowl of goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Satisfying: This stew packs a punch with tender beef and crispy bacon, making it a filling meal that everyone will love.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps that anyone can follow, you’ll have this delicious dish simmering on the stove in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The combination of savory beef and sweet apples makes this stew a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This stew tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with fresh ingredients like apples and prunes, it’s a nourishing choice for any dinner table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This beef stew features simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Gather these items to create a comforting dish that’s sure to please:

For the Stew

• 3 ½ – 4 lb beef shoulder
• ½ lb bacon
• 1 large onion
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• kosher salt (as needed)
• 1 x 500 ml can hard cider (or apple juice)
• 2 tbsp grainy mustard
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup prunes
• 2 apples
• 2 tbsp cornstarch

Variations

One of the best things about this beef stew is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs:

• Swap the protein: Try using lamb or chicken instead of beef for a different flavor profile.
• Go vegetarian: Substitute mushrooms or eggplant in place of the beef for a hearty veggie version.
• Add more veggies: Toss in carrots, potatoes, or any root vegetables you have on hand to make it even heartier.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or some hot sauce if you like a little kick in your stew.

How to Make beef Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

Start by trimming any excess fat from the beef shoulder. Cut it into 2-inch chunks and pat them dry. This step is crucial because browning the meat creates those deep flavors you’ll savor later. Also, chop your bacon, set it aside, and dice up your onion. Don’t forget to mince the garlic!

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat a large braiser or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season those beautiful chunks of beef with kosher salt before adding them to hot oil in batches. Browning gives our stew that rich caramelized flavor that’s simply divine.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

Once your beef has turned a lovely brown color, add in the bacon pieces. Cook until they’re crispy—this adds texture and smokiness to our stew. After removing them from the pot, spoon off most of the fat but leave just enough to sauté our veggies.

Step 4: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add diced onions into the pot and sauté until they soften up nicely—about 3-4 minutes should do. Then toss in minced garlic for an additional minute until fragrant. Deglaze with either hard cider or apple juice; this lifts all those flavorful bits stuck at the bottom!

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Stir in both types of mustard along with thyme sprigs and a sprinkle of kosher salt. Bring back all those browned beef pieces along with their juices into this aromatic mix! Pour in chicken broth until everything is submerged.

Step 6: Simmer Away

Bring your concoction just to a boil before reducing heat—cover it up tightly and let it simmer gently on low for about an hour. This slow cooking allows all those flavors to meld beautifully together.

Step 7: Add Prunes & Apples

Skim off excess fat from the surface before adding prunes and cooked bacon back into the mix. Let it simmer covered on low again for another 15 minutes while you quarter those juicy apples into slices—add them last so they remain tender but not mushy!

Step 8: Thicken & Serve

Finally, spoon out some braising liquid into a small bowl and whisk in cornstarch until smooth. Stir this slurry back into your simmering stew for thickening magic! Cook for just another couple minutes until you achieve that luscious consistency everyone loves. Serve alongside creamy mashed turnips or potatoes for an unforgettable meal!

Pro Tips for Making beef Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

Making a delicious beef stew is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your cooking experience:

• Sear the beef properly – Browning the beef in batches creates a rich flavor base for your stew, enhancing its overall taste.
• Don’t skip the deglazing – Using cider or apple juice to deglaze the pan captures all those tasty browned bits, adding depth to the stew’s flavor.
• Adjust seasoning throughout cooking – Tasting as you go allows you to balance flavors and ensure your stew is perfectly seasoned before serving.
• Let it rest after cooking – Allowing the stew to sit for a few minutes before serving helps the flavors meld together even more beautifully.
• Use fresh herbs – Fresh thyme adds brightness and aromatic qualities that dried herbs often can’t match, making your stew more vibrant.

How to Serve beef Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

Serving your beef stew beautifully can enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting dish:

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or thyme sprigs – A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs adds a pop of color and freshness to the hearty stew.
• A drizzle of olive oil – A light drizzle just before serving offers a glossy finish and enriches the dish’s flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Creamy mashed turnips – A lighter alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, mashed turnips provide a creamy texture that pairs well with the richness of the stew.
• Buttered egg noodles – Soft noodles soak up the delicious sauce, making each bite satisfying and comforting.
• Crusty bread or rolls – Perfect for sopping up every last drop of broth, crusty bread adds a satisfying crunch that complements the tender meat.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts – Their slight bitterness contrasts nicely with the sweetness of apples and prunes in the stew, creating a balanced meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

This beef stew with bacon, apples, and prunes is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious home-cooked meals throughout the week. Here’s how to keep your leftovers fresh and ready to serve.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cooled stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 4 days.
• If possible, separate the bacon from the stew before storing to maintain its texture.

Freezing

• Allow the stew to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking!

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making beef stew with bacon, apples, and prunes.

Can I use other types of meat for this beef stew with bacon, apples, and prunes?

Yes! While this recipe focuses on beef shoulder for its tenderness and flavor, you could experiment with other cuts like chuck or brisket. Just ensure they are suitable for slow cooking.

What can I serve with beef stew with bacon, apples, and prunes?

This hearty stew pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or turnips. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.

How long does beef stew with bacon, apples, and prunes last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this stew lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 3 months.

Can I make this recipe without bacon?

Absolutely! You can omit the bacon or replace it with a smoked turkey option for added flavor without using pork products.

Is this beef stew healthy?

Yes! This recipe incorporates nutritious ingredients like apples and prunes while providing protein from the beef. Adjusting the amount of oil used during cooking can also make it lighter.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this beef stew with bacon, apples, and prunes as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Don’t hesitate to share your own variations or experiences; I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!

Print

Beef Stew with Apples and Prunes

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

If you’re searching for a warm and comforting dish to brighten your dinner table, this Beef Stew with Apples and Prunes is the perfect choice. Crafted with tender chunks of beef and complemented by the natural sweetness of apples and prunes, this stew offers a delightful balance of flavors that will please your palate. Ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings, it fills your home with an inviting aroma that draws everyone to the kitchen. With easy preparation steps and wholesome ingredients, this hearty meal is sure to become a go-to favorite.

• Author: JenniferHayes
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 75 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6
• Category: Main
• Method: Braising
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 ½ – 4 lb beef shoulder
• 1 large onion
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup prunes
• 2 apples (quartered)
• Fresh thyme

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Cut the beef shoulder into 2-inch chunks, trim excess fat, and pat dry.
2. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season beef with salt and brown in batches until caramelized.
3. Sauté diced onion until soft; add minced garlic for an additional minute.
4. Stir in mustard and thyme, then return beef to the pot along with chicken broth to cover.
5. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about an hour.
6. Add prunes and apples; simmer for another 15 minutes.
7. Thicken stew using cornstarch mixed with some braising liquid before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 70mg