Warm up with a hearty and nutritious meal. This Sweet Potato and Kale Beef Stew is a perfect healthy beef stew recipe, packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients. You’ll love how easy it is to make a comforting dish that’s good for you.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Beef Stew Meat: You can use chuck roast or sirloin cut into cubes.
- Sweet Potatoes: Regular potatoes or butternut squash are good alternatives.
- Kale: Spinach or collard greens also work well.
- Beef Broth: Vegetable broth can be used for a lighter flavor.
- Onion & Garlic: Essential aromatics for depth of flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1.5 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 4 cups chopped kale, stems removed
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350
- Tools needed: Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in a single layer and brown them on all sides. You might need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot.
2. Sauté Aromatics
Once the beef is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Simmer the Stew
Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and add the diced sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes, thyme, rosemary, pepper, and salt. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.
4. Add the Kale
After the beef is tender, stir in the chopped kale. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for another 10-15 minutes, or until the kale has wilted and the sweet potatoes are fork-tender. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Variation Ideas
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Stir in a can of drained cannellini beans for extra protein.
- Include other root vegetables like carrots or parsnips.
- Top with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Sweet Potato and Kale Beef Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until heated through. This healthy beef stew recipe often tastes even better the next day!
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of beef is best for stew?
Chuck roast or sirloin cut into 1-inch cubes works wonderfully for stew. They become tender and flavorful during the long cooking process.
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics as directed. Then, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
How can I thicken the stew if it’s too thin?
You can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the simmering stew a little at a time until it reaches your desired thickness.
Can I freeze this healthy beef stew?
Absolutely! This stew freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Sweet Potato and Kale Beef Stew is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions looking for healthy beef stew recipes.
What can I serve with this stew?
This stew is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side of crusty bread, brown rice, or a light green salad if you like.
