Mulligan Stew is a comfort food staple that has been warming hearts and kitchens for generations. This rich and hearty dish brings together tender beef, perfectly cooked vegetables, and a savory broth to create a meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for colder evenings, this recipe is your go-to. Its deep flavors, combined with an easy-to-follow method, make it a favorite among home cooks.
Ingredients
For Coating the Beef:
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour: Helps sear the beef and thicken the stew.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory flavor profile.
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Provides a gentle kick and balances the seasoning.
For the Stew:
- 1 lb beef stew meat: Opt for cuts like chuck roast for maximum tenderness.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Used for browning the beef and sautéing the onions.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Contributes a foundational aromatic flavor.
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth: Forms the base of the stew and carries the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a hint of earthiness.
- ¼ teaspoon dried basil: Brings a touch of sweetness and herbaceousness.
- ¼ teaspoon dried marjoram: Elevates the complexity with its subtle floral notes.
- 2 medium gold potatoes, cubed: Gold potatoes hold their shape and offer a creamy texture.
- 1 bag (19 ounces) frozen mixed vegetables: A convenient blend of corn, carrots, peas, and green beans.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef
- Combine flour, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper in a large zipper-seal bag.
- Add the beef stew meat and shake well to coat each piece evenly.
- Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Remove the coated beef from the bag, shaking off excess flour, and brown on all sides. This step locks in the juices.
- Transfer the browned beef to a plate and reserve the leftover flour mixture (approximately 1½ tablespoons).
Step 3: Sauté the Onion
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the Dutch oven.
- Sauté the chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Stir in the reserved flour and cook for 2 minutes, constantly stirring to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Build the Broth
- Sprinkle in the oregano, basil, and marjoram, stirring for 30 seconds to release their flavors.
- Gradually add the beef broth, stirring frequently to create a smooth base.
- Return the browned beef to the pot, cover, and transfer the Dutch oven to the preheated oven.
Step 5: Bake the Stew
- Cook the stew in the oven for 1 hour to tenderize the beef.
- After an hour, add the cubed potatoes and frozen mixed vegetables.
- Return to the oven and cook for an additional 30 minutes or until the vegetables and potatoes are tender.
Pro Tips for Perfect Mulligan Stew
- Choose the Right Beef: Cuts from chuck roast or shoulder are ideal for a stew, as they become melt-in-your-mouth tender with slow cooking.
- Avoid Russet Potatoes: Stick with gold or red potatoes to maintain texture. Russets tend to break apart in the stew.
- Use a Dutch Oven: This ensures even heat distribution, but a deep casserole dish will work if necessary.
- Customize the Vegetables: Swap the frozen mix for fresh seasonal veggies like parsnips, sweet potatoes, or even Brussels sprouts for a unique twist.
- Deglaze for Extra Flavor: Scrape up browned bits from the pan after sautéing the onions for added depth in the broth.
Serving Suggestions
Pair Mulligan Stew with a side of buttered crusty bread or fluffy dinner rolls to soak up every last drop of the flavorful broth. For a complete meal, serve with a simple green salad or a glass of red wine, like a robust Cabernet Sauvignon, to complement the rich flavors.
Conclusion
Mulligan Stew is the ultimate combination of simplicity and satisfaction. With tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and a deeply savory broth, this dish is perfect for cozy nights and family gatherings. Its timeless appeal and adaptability make it a must-try recipe for both novice and seasoned cooks. Follow the tips and instructions above to create a stew that’s guaranteed to impress, leaving everyone at the table craving seconds.
Ready to make the perfect stew? Bookmark this recipe and enjoy the ultimate comfort food today!