Texas Cowboy Stew: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Texas Cowboy Stew
Texas Cowboy Stew is a hearty and fulfilling dish that warms your soul on a chilly day. Packed with rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, this stew is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. The combination of ground beef, sausage, and an array of vegetables makes it a complete meal in one pot. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding, making it an excellent choice for everyone, even those aged 65 and above.
A Personal Story Behind My Texas Cowboy Stew Journey
I first learned about Texas Cowboy Stew from my grandmother, who often made it for our family reunions. The aroma of simmering beef and spices would fill the house, drawing everyone together. Each bite reminded me of the love and warmth of family gatherings. Now, I carry on that tradition by making this stew for my own family, creating new memories while honoring the old. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a way to connect with my roots and share comforting flavors with loved ones.
What Makes This Texas Cowboy Stew Recipe Special?
What sets this Texas Cowboy Stew apart is its robust flavor profile and versatility. The use of both ground beef and kielbasa sausage adds depth, while the variety of vegetables provides a vibrant texture. This stew is not only filling but also allows for customization based on personal preferences. You can adjust the spices to make it milder or spicier, ensuring it suits your taste. Plus, it’s a one-pot dish, making clean-up a breeze!
The Full Texas Cowboy Stew Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lb ground beef
- 2 packages kielbasa sausage, sliced into ½ inch pieces
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) peeled and diced tomatoes, drained
- 4 medium baking potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) pinto beans, with liquid
- 1 can (15.2 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes with green chile pepper, with liquid
- 1 package (10 oz) frozen mixed vegetables
- 4 cups of water
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent. This usually takes about 5 minutes. Adding a pinch of salt can help the onion soften faster.
- Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until it’s no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This should take around 7-10 minutes.
- Stir in the sliced kielbasa sausage, allowing it to brown slightly for added flavor.
- Add the drained tomatoes, pinto beans (with liquid), corn, diced potatoes, diced tomatoes with chiles, and frozen mixed vegetables to the pot. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Season the mixture with ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to ensure everything is well incorporated.
- Pour in the water and bring the stew to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for one hour. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Texas Cowboy Stew
Texas Cowboy Stew is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the experience by serving it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top. For a bit of crunch, consider adding some freshly chopped cilantro or green onions. If you prefer a spicier kick, add jalapeños or extra chili powder. You can also serve it with crusty bread or cornbread on the side for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Texas Cowboy Stew
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Simply brown the beef and sausage first, then add all the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months!
Can I use different beans?
Absolutely! You can substitute pinto beans with black beans or kidney beans based on your preference. Just ensure to keep the liquid from the canned beans for added flavor.
Recipe Stats
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Calories per Serving: 450
Servings: 8
Texas Cowboy Stew
Equipment
- Dutch oven Essential for even cooking.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lb ground beef
- 2 packages kielbasa sausage, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cans peeled and diced tomatoes drained
- 4 medium baking potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cans pinto beans with liquid
- 1 can whole kernel corn drained
- 2 cans diced tomatoes with green chile pepper with liquid
- 1 package frozen mixed vegetables
- 4 cups water
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, sauté the onion until translucent.
- Add the ground beef and cook until no longer pink.
- Stir in the sliced sausage.
- Add the drained tomatoes, pinto beans with liquid, corn, potatoes, diced tomatoes with chiles, and mixed vegetables. Mix well.
- Season with ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the water and bring the stew to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for one hour, stirring occasionally.