American Stew Is the Perfect Comfort Food

American Stew

This tasty stew is the perfect comfort food. It’s easy to make whether you’re staying at home or out all day. I like to use bison or grass-fed beef because these meats are better for the environment and for our health. When bison or cows eat grass instead of corn, their meat is higher in omega-3 fatty acids than conventionally raised animals. It’s a win-win.

Benefits
Bison, like beef, contains protein, vitamins, and minerals such as copper, which forms collagen for skin, bone, and joint health; iron, which helps transport oxygen throughout the body; and phosphorous, which helps with proper muscle contraction and proper nerve function. Red wine contains the heart-healthy compound resveratrol.

Serves 4–8

Ingredients
6 Yukon gold or red potatoes, quartered
4 medium carrots, cut to 1-inch lengths
2–3 medium onions, quartered
1 tsp. minced garlic
3 tsp. salt, divided
1½ tsp. freshly ground black pepper, divided
1 cup all-purpose flour
2–3 lbs. bison (or grass-fed beef), cut into 1-inch cubes
2 Tbs. olive oil
½ cup red wine
1½ cups beef broth
2 tsp. dried thyme leaves
2 cups frozen petite peas or green beans
2 cups frozen corn kernels

Procedure
1. Combine the potatoes, carrots, onions, garlic, 1 tsp. salt, and ½ tsp. pepper in the insert of a slow cooker. Toss to distribute the seasoning.
2. Prep the stew meat: Add 2 tsp. salt, 1 tsp. pepper, and the flour to a large plastic bag and mix to combine. Add the meat and coat completely. Remove the meat and shake off any excess flour.
3. In a large skillet, heat the oil over high heat. Add the meat and brown on all sides. Transfer to the slow cooker.
4. Deglaze the skillet with the wine and broth. Scrape up all browned bits from the bottom of the pan and add the skillet contents and thyme leaves to the slow cooker.
5. Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours or until the meat is fork-tender.
6. Add the peas or green beans and corn and cook for an additional hour.