beef Stew with Turkey Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

This beef stew with turkey bacon, apples, and prunes is a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or special gatherings. The tender beef shoulder simmers in a rich broth enhanced by the sweetness of apples and prunes, while the turkey bacon adds a delicious smoky note without overpowering the dish. This unique recipe will impress guests at any occasion, from holiday feasts to casual weeknight meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef, turkey bacon, and fruits creates a complex taste that delights the palate.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this stew can be made with minimal fuss.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with various sides like mashed potatoes or crusty bread for a hearty meal.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This stew keeps well in the fridge, allowing for delicious meals throughout the week.
• Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Packed with protein and vitamins from apples and prunes, this dish is as nutritious as it is tasty.

Tools and Preparation

To make this beef stew with turkey bacon, apples, and prunes successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large braiser or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Slotted spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large braiser or Dutch oven: Ideal for browning meat evenly and simmering the stew for optimal flavor development.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise cuts of beef, onions, and apples for even cooking.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing cooked turkey bacon from fat without leaving behind unwanted grease.

Ingredients

For the Stew Base

• 3 ½ – 4 lb beef shoulder
• ½ lb Turkey Bacon
• 1 large onion
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• kosher salt (as needed)

For the Flavorings

• 1 x 500 ml can hard cider (or apple juice)
• 2 tbsp grainy mustard
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme
• 3 cups chicken broth

For the Sweetness

• 1 cup prunes
• 2 apples

For Thickening

• 2 tbsp cornstarch

How to Make beef Stew with Turkey Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. Trim any excess fat from the beef shoulder.
2. Cut the beef shoulder into 2-inch chunks and pat dry.
3. Cut the turkey bacon into strips or cubes and set aside.
4. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

1. Heat a large braiser or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Season the beef pieces with kosher salt.
3. Add olive oil to the pan; once hot, brown the beef in batches until browned on several sides.

Step 3: Cook Turkey Bacon

1. After browning all the beef, add turkey bacon to the braiser.
2. Sauté until crispy; remove with a slotted spoon to drain on paper towels.
3. Spoon off all but 2 tablespoons of fat in the braiser.

Step 4: Sauté Onions and Garlic

1. Add diced onions to the braiser; sauté over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
2. Add minced garlic; cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Deglaze pan with cider; bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in both mustards along with thyme sprigs and kosher salt.

Step 5: Simmer Stew

1. Return browned beef to braiser along with any juices.
2. Add chicken broth; bring liquid just to boil then reduce heat.
3. Cover and allow to simmer gently on low for 1 hour.

Step 6: Add Prunes and Apples

1. Skim excess fat off braising liquid after an hour of cooking.
2. Stir in prunes and crispy turkey bacon; continue simmering covered on low for an additional 15 minutes.
3. Quarter apples and cut into slices; add apple slices to stew cook until tender (about 10-15 minutes).

Step 7: Thicken Stew

1. Spoon out about ¼ cup of braising liquid into a small bowl; let cool briefly.
2. Whisk cornstarch into reserved liquid until smooth; stir this slurry into stew.
3. Cook for another couple of minutes until thickened.

Step 8: Serve

Serve your flavorful beef stew with hearty sides like creamy mashed turnips or potatoes, and enjoy!

How to Serve beef Stew with Turkey Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

Serving beef stew with turkey bacon, apples, and prunes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful suggestions on how to present this hearty dish for your family or guests.

Classic Pairing with Bread

• Crusty Bread: Serve your stew with slices of crusty bread for soaking up the delicious broth.
• Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread adds flavor and a crispy texture to every bite.

Hearty Side Options

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their creaminess perfectly complements the rich flavors of the stew.
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrition.

Salads for Brightness

• Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the stew’s richness.
• Apple Walnut Salad: Incorporate diced apples and walnuts for a crunchy, sweet addition that ties in nicely with the flavors of the stew.

How to Perfect beef Stew with Turkey Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

To make your beef stew even better, consider these helpful tips. They can enhance flavor and texture while ensuring a delicious outcome.

• Choose Quality Meat: Opt for high-quality beef shoulder; the better the meat, the richer the flavor.
• Brown Thoroughly: Spend extra time browning the beef well. This step creates depth in taste through caramelization.
• Experiment with Herbs: While thyme is classic, try adding rosemary or bay leaves for additional aromatic layers.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste frequently as you cook. This ensures you achieve the perfect balance of flavors without over-salting.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the stew to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld all flavors together beautifully.
• Thicken Wisely: Use cornstarch slurry gradually. Stir until you reach your desired thickness without overpowering the dish.

Best Side Dishes for beef Stew with Turkey Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

Pairing side dishes with your beef stew can enhance its overall appeal. Here’s a selection of great sides that complement this meal perfectly.

1. Creamy Mashed Turnips: A low-carb alternative to potatoes that offers a slightly sweet flavor profile.
2. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots glazed with honey add a vibrant touch alongside your savory stew.
3. Butter Noodles: Simple noodles tossed in butter provide an easy-to-make side that kids will enjoy too.
4. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted until crispy, these provide a nutty flavor that pairs well with rich stews.
5. Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add a fresh crunch and bright color to your meal plate.
6. Savory Cornbread: Moist cornbread complements the flavors of the stew while providing a wonderful texture contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking beef stew can be simple, but small errors can lead to less than perfect results. Here are some common mistakes to watch for.

• Not Browning the Meat Properly: Failing to brown the beef before adding other ingredients can result in a stew lacking rich flavor. Make sure to sear the beef until it’s well-browned on all sides.
• Skipping the Deglazing Step: Ignoring deglazing means missing out on delicious bits stuck to the pan. Always add your liquid (like cider or broth) to scrape up those flavorful bits after browning.
• Overcooking or Undercooking Vegetables: Adding vegetables at the wrong time can lead to mushy or hard veggies. Always consider their cooking times and when they should be added to achieve the perfect texture.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Using subpar meat or broth can dull the overall flavor of your stew. Invest in good quality ingredients for a richer taste.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Under-seasoning is a common mistake that results in bland stew. Taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking, especially towards the end.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing beef Stew with Turkey Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

• Use a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating beef Stew with Turkey Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place stew in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil for even heating.
• Microwave: Heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each interval until heated thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the key to making tender beef stew?

The key is slow cooking at a low temperature. This helps break down tougher cuts of meat, resulting in tender, flavorful beef.

Can I use different meats in this beef Stew with Turkey Bacon, Apples, and Prunes?

Yes! You can substitute chicken or lamb if you prefer, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the meat used.

How do I thicken my beef Stew with Turkey Bacon, Apples, and Prunes?

Adding cornstarch mixed with a bit of cold liquid is an effective way. Stir it into the stew towards the end of cooking for desired thickness.

What can I serve with this beef Stew with Turkey Bacon, Apples, and Prunes?

This hearty stew pairs well with creamy mashed potatoes or turnips for a comforting meal experience.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include carrots or peas for added color and nutrition. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!

Final Thoughts

This beef stew with turkey bacon, apples, and prunes is a delightful blend of flavors that makes it perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs. We encourage you to try this recipe; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Beef Stew with Apples and Prunes

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in this hearty beef stew with apples and prunes, where savory meets sweet in a delightful dance of flavors. This comforting dish features tender chunks of beef shoulder simmered in a rich broth, enhanced by the natural sweetness of apples and prunes. Perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions, this stew is sure to impress both family and guests alike. Serve it with crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes for a meal that warms the heart and satisfies the soul.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 ½ – 4 lb beef shoulder
• 1 large onion
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 2 apples
• 1 cup prunes
• ½ lb turkey bacon
• 2 tbsp grainy mustard
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2–3 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2–3 tbsp cornstarch
• kosher salt (as needed)

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Instructions

1. Trim excess fat from the beef shoulder and cut into 2-inch chunks. Pat dry.
2. Cut turkey bacon into strips; dice onion and mince garlic.
3. In a large braiser or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, season beef with salt, add olive oil, and brown beef until browned on all sides.
4. Sauté turkey bacon until crispy; set aside on paper towels.
5. Sauté onions for 3-4 minutes, add garlic, then deglaze pan with apple juice, stirring in mustards and thyme.
6. Return beef to the pot with chicken broth; bring to a boil, reduce heat, and cover to simmer for 1 hour.
7. Add prunes and apples; simmer for another 15 minutes until apples are tender.
8. Mix cornstarch with reserved liquid to thicken the stew; stir back into the pot for a couple more minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 75 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Braising
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 75mg