Simple Ingredients Big Comfort

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🥣 Simple Ingredients, Big Comfort

🍲 Poor Man’s Stew

Would you eat Poor Man’s Stew?
YAY or NAY? 👇

Drop your vote — and now here’s your FULL comforting recipe!

🧡 Introduction

Poor Man’s Stew is the definition of humble comfort food. It’s simple, hearty, affordable, and made with everyday pantry ingredients — yet it tastes like something that simmered all day in grandma’s kitchen.

This stew became popular during hard economic times like the , when families had to stretch small budgets into filling meals. With ground beef, potatoes, carrots, and a rich tomato broth, it’s a one-pot wonder that feeds a crowd without breaking the bank.

It’s warm.
It’s filling.
It’s nostalgic.

And most importantly — it’s made with love.

🥕 Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3–4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 3 carrots, sliced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
  • 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt & black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)

Optional add-ins:

  • 1 cup frozen peas or green beans
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • A pinch of red pepper flakes

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 2: Add the Aromatics

Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Build the Stew

Stir in potatoes, carrots, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth.

Step 4: Season

Add garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 6: Final Touch

Taste and adjust seasoning. Add optional vegetables if desired and simmer 5 more minutes.

Serve hot with warm bread or biscuits.

🔥 Cooking Methods

🥘 Stovetop (Classic Way)

Best flavor development and perfect for weeknight dinners.

🐢 Slow Cooker

  • Brown beef first.
  • Add everything to crockpot.
  • Cook on LOW 6–7 hours or HIGH 3–4 hours.

⚡ Instant Pot

  • Use sauté mode for beef.
  • Add ingredients.
  • Pressure cook 10 minutes.
  • Natural release 5 minutes.

📜 History & Formation

Poor Man’s Stew is rooted in survival cooking — meals designed to be filling, inexpensive, and nourishing. During times of hardship like the , families relied on:

  • Potatoes (cheap and filling)
  • Ground meat (stretched with vegetables)
  • Canned tomatoes (long shelf life)

The “formation” of this stew follows a simple structure:

Protein + Root Vegetables + Broth + Seasoning = Hearty Meal

It’s a formula that works across cultures and generations.

❤️ Why People LOVE It

  • Budget-friendly
  • One-pot meal
  • Feeds a crowd
  • Freezer-friendly
  • Kid-approved
  • Tastes even better the next day

It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel safe and full at the same time.

🧊 Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerate up to 4 days
  • Freeze up to 3 months
  • Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave
  • Add a splash of broth if thickened

🏁 Conclusion

Poor Man’s Stew proves you don’t need fancy ingredients to make something delicious. With simple pantry staples and a little time, you get a rich, cozy, satisfying meal that warms both the stomach and the soul.

So…

🥄 Would YOU eat Poor Man’s Stew?
YAY or NAY?

Tell me your vote!

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