Fall Apple Cider Beef Stew over Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Introduction
This Fall Apple Cider Beef Stew is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for cooler weather. The sweet tartness of apple cider enhances the rich flavors of the beef and vegetables, creating a satisfying meal when served over creamy mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef stew meat
- 2 cups apple cider
- 4 medium potatoes
- 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cups beef broth
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef stew meat over medium-high heat until all sides are nicely seared. Remove and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same pot, add onion and carrots and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Step 3: Return the beef to the pot. Pour in the apple cider and beef broth, then bring to a simmer.
- Step 4: Cover and let simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and vegetables are cooked through.
- Step 5: While the stew simmers, peel and boil potatoes until tender. Mash with butter, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Step 6: Serve the beef stew hot over a bed of mashed potatoes.
Tips & Variations
- For extra depth, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a bay leaf during simmering.
- Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a different flavor profile in the mash.
- Thicken the stew by stirring in a mixture of cornstarch and water toward the end of cooking.
Storage
Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. Mashed potatoes are best eaten fresh but can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 2 days.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a slow cooker for this stew?
Yes, brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the beef is tender.
What can I substitute for apple cider?
If you don’t have apple cider, you can use apple juice mixed with a little lemon juice or a combination of beef broth with a splash of vinegar for similar tangy flavor.
PrintFall Apple Cider Beef Stew over Mashed Potatoes Recipe
This hearty Fall Apple Cider Beef Stew is a comforting dish featuring tender beef simmered in flavorful apple cider and beef broth, combined with root vegetables, and served over creamy mashed potatoes. Perfect for chilly autumn evenings, this stew balances savory and slightly sweet notes for a satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Stew Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into chunks
- 2 cups apple cider
- 4 cups beef broth
- 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 large onion, chopped
Mashed Potatoes
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and brown on all sides for about 5-7 minutes to develop rich flavor.
- Add liquids and vegetables: Pour in 2 cups of apple cider and 4 cups of beef broth. Add the chopped onions and sliced carrots to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Simmer the stew: Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the flavors meld together.
- Prepare mashed potatoes: While the stew simmers, place peeled and quartered potatoes in a pot of salted water. Boil for 15-20 minutes or until tender. Drain and mash with butter and milk, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Spoon a generous portion of mashed potatoes onto each plate and ladle the hot beef stew over the top. Enjoy your comforting fall meal!
Notes
- For extra depth, you can add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the stew during simmering.
- Use hearty, waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds for creamier mashed potatoes.
- Leftovers taste great the next day and can be reheated gently on the stovetop.
- If you prefer thicker stew, you can reduce the liquid by simmering uncovered for the last 20 minutes.
Keywords: Apple cider stew, beef stew, fall recipes, comfort food, mashed potatoes
