How to Make a Hearty Beef Stew

If you plan to stay home for a lovely Valentine evening this slow cooking dish doesn't need to be watched so you can enjoy the day without fussing and it's low on the budget so you can buy your loved one a special gift ;D

I use fennel tops and broccoli stems to add a twist to this stew as most people think these items are not usable but, because they are very fibrous they are a great addition to a low slow cooking dish as this fiber breaks down and add lots of flavour. I like utilizing all of the food in my home reducing my footprint on the planet.

I have also utilized leftover gravy to add tonnes of flavour to this delish dish!

2-3 lbs of beef or veal stewing meat, large chunks (this is lean and needs time to cook. It is flavourful and economical)

2 tbsp oil

1 large onion

1 carrot peeled and cut into coins

2-3 potatoes, peeled and cubed

1 rib of celery, washed and choped

1/2 cup of cleaned, sliced mushrooms

1/2 bell pepper seeded, diced

2 bay leaves

3-5 stems or tops of broccoli (fibrous stems peeled) + 2-3 stems of fennel, chopped

1/4 cup flat leaf parsley

1 pickled green Jalapeno, chopped

1/4 cup red wine

2 cups of leftover gravy

1 tsp chipotle spice

salt & pepper to taste

In a large preheated saucepot add oil and brown cubes of meat on all sides until caramelized.

(the more browned the more flavour)

When the pot begins to sizzle add the wine. Stir. Cook reducing on med. heat for 5 min.

Add gravy.

Add the herbs and top with vegetables.

Bring the heat up to a boil. Stirring to prevent scorching.

Reduce heat to a high or slow simmer depending on your time limits.

Cover leaving the top ajar, allowing steam to escape.

Cook until meat is fork tender or

(simmer slowly takes 2hrs to cook- higher simmer cooks 1 1/2hrs.)

(crockpot is 4 or 8 hrs)

Enjoy with love!