This Mississippi Beef Stew is full of hearty beef, tasty veggies, and a little kick from pepperoncini. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
You can throw it all in one pot and let it cook while you relax. Perfect for busy days or when you want comfort food without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: Look for chuck roast or brisket. These cuts are great for stews as they become tender after simmering. If you’re looking for a lean option, sirloin works too, but it may not be as juicy.
Olive Oil: While I recommend olive oil for sautéing, you could use canola or vegetable oil. They work well and have a neutral flavor, perfect for browning meat.
Pepperoncini Peppers: These add a nice tang. If you can’t find them, try banana peppers or even a mild jalapeño for a little heat. Just adjust the amount if you’re not a fan of spice!
Ranch Seasoning Mix: You can make a homemade version using herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder. This could be a fun way to control the flavors if you’re up for it!
Frozen Peas: You can leave these out or substitute with green beans or corn. Both add a pop of color and flavor, and they also cook quickly!
How Do I Get Perfectly Tender Beef in My Stew?
To ensure your beef is tender, browning it first is key! Here’s how:
- Heat your pot well before adding oil. This prevents sticking.
- Don’t crowd the pan; give the meat space to brown. Work in batches if necessary.
- Simmering the stew low and slow is essential. This breaks down tough fibers in the meat.
- If you have time, let it cook longer. The flavors deepen and the meat gets even more tender!
Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll end up with a deliciously comforting Mississippi Beef Stew that everyone will love!
Mississippi Beef Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into chunks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 (10 oz) jar pepperoncini peppers with juice
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (dry)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound baby potatoes, whole or halved as desired
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mississippi Beef Stew takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 1.5 to 2 hours of cooking time. You’ll be simmering it until the beef and vegetables are tender, making it the perfect meal for a cozy evening or a weekend gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd. Brown them on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once they’re nicely browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside for later.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they soften. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Stir it gently to avoid burning.
3. Combining Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to return the beef to the pot! Add the beef broth, ranch seasoning mix, and the pepperoncini peppers (including their juice). Sprinkle in dried thyme and black pepper, then stir everything to combine well.
4. Adding the Veggies:
Toss in the baby potatoes and carrot chunks. Stir to make sure they’re covered with the broth mixture.
5. Simmering the Stew:
Bring the stew to a boil, and then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow cooking will make the beef tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
6. Final Touches:
About 10 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the frozen peas. They will warm up quickly and add a lovely burst of color!
7. Thickening the Stew (optional):
If you like your stew thick, mix the cornstarch with water to make a slurry. Stir it into the stew, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until thickened to your desired consistency.
8. Serving It Up:
Before serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley over the top for an extra touch of freshness. Enjoy your hearty Mississippi Beef Stew warm, served with crusty bread or over cooked rice for a complete meal!
Dig in and savor the comforting flavors!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef for This Stew?
Absolutely! While beef stew meat is a great choice, you can also use chuck roast or brisket. These cuts become tender and flavorful when simmered. Just be sure to cube them into bite-sized pieces.
Can I Substitute the Ranch Seasoning Mix?
Yes! If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you can make a homemade version using garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and parsley. This way, you can adjust the seasoning to your taste.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add in vegetables like green beans, celery, or bell peppers. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly so everything cooks evenly. Add heartier veggies earlier and quicker-cooking ones like peas in the last few minutes.
