beef Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms your heart and fills your home with a delicious aroma, then this beef Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes is just what you need! This recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The combination of savory beef, smoky bacon, sweet apples, and luscious prunes creates a delightful medley of flavors that everyone will love.

What makes this recipe so special? It’s not only comforting but also incredibly easy to prepare. You can set it on the stove and let it simmer while you go about your day. Plus, it’s perfect for making ahead of time—just reheat and enjoy! Let’s dive into why you’ll love this hearty stew!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This recipe doesn’t require any complicated techniques. Just chop, sauté, and let it simmer!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The balanced flavors make it a hit with both adults and kids alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Cook it in advance and warm it up for an effortless dinner.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of bacon with apples and prunes adds a unique twist that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating this scrumptious beef stew. Luckily, these are all simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have in your pantry!

For the Stew

• 3 ½ – 4 lb beef shoulder
• ½ lb bacon
• 1 large onion
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• kosher salt (as needed)
• 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
• 1 cup prunes
• 2 apples
• 2 tbsp cornstarch

Variations

One of the best things about this beef stew is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it based on what you have at hand or what flavors you adore.

• Swap the protein: Use lamb or chicken instead of beef for a different flavor profile.
• Add vegetables: Toss in carrots or potatoes to make it even heartier!
• Change the fruit: Pears can substitute for apples if you’re looking for something different.
• Experiment with spices: Add cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, autumnal twist.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by trimming any excess fat from the beef shoulder. Cut it into 2-inch chunks and pat dry. This step helps achieve a nice browning later on, which adds depth to the flavor. Next, cut the bacon into strips or cubes and set aside. Dice the onion and mince the garlic; these aromatics will create a lovely base for your stew.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat a large braiser or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season those beautiful beef pieces with kosher salt. When the oil is hot, begin browning the beef in batches until it’s golden on several sides—this caramelization is crucial as it builds rich flavors.

Step 3: Sauté the Bacon

After browning all that beef goodness, add the bacon to the same pot. Sauté until crispy—this will give your stew that smoky flavor we all crave! Remove the bacon using a slotted spoon and transfer it to paper towels to drain. Now you’ll want to spoon off all but 2 tablespoons of fat from the pot.

Step 4: Sauté Onions & Deglaze

Add diced onions to the pot and sauté over medium heat until softened—about 3 to 4 minutes. This step brings out their natural sweetness! Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then comes the fun part: deglazing! Pour in your cider (or apple juice), bringing everything together while scraping up those tasty browned bits on the bottom.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time to return that beautifully browned beef back into the braiser along with any accumulated juices. Pour in chicken broth and bring everything just to a boil. Once bubbling away, reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer gently on low for about an hour.

Step 6: Add Prunes & Apples

After an hour of simmering bliss, skim off any excess fat from your braising liquid. Now add those sweet prunes along with crispy bacon back into your stew; let them mingle together covered for another 15 minutes. Quarter those apples before slicing them up; toss them into your stew next and cook until tender—about another 10-15 minutes.

Step 7: Thicken It Up

Spoon out about 1/4 cup of broth from your pot into a small bowl to cool briefly. Whisk in cornstarch until there are no lumps left—this slurry will help thicken your stew beautifully! Stir this back into your pot and cook for another couple of minutes until thickened.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Finally! It’s time to serve this comforting beef stew alongside creamy mashed turnips or potatoes for an unforgettable meal. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making beef Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

Creating a delicious beef stew is all about the details, so here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfect every time!

• Choose the right cut of meat: Using beef shoulder ensures that your stew will be tender and flavorful after a long simmer. This cut has just the right amount of fat and connective tissue, which breaks down beautifully during cooking.
• Brown the beef properly: Don’t rush this step! Browning the beef in batches allows for a nice crust to develop, enhancing the stew’s flavor through the Maillard reaction. A good sear adds depth that can transform your stew from good to great.
• Adjust seasoning as you go: Remember to taste while cooking! Adding kosher salt gradually throughout the cooking process helps layer flavors and prevents over-salting at the end.
• Opt for fresh herbs: Using fresh thyme not only brightens up the dish but also infuses it with aromatic flavors. If you can, use fresh herbs instead of dried ones for a more vibrant taste.
• Let it rest: Once your stew is done cooking, allow it to sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting time lets the flavors meld together even more, resulting in a richer taste.

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

Serving this hearty beef stew can be just as delightful as making it. Here are a few ideas to present this comforting dish beautifully!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and a touch of freshness that brightens each bite.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop on top provides creaminess that balances the savory notes of the stew perfectly.
• Thinly Sliced Green Onions: These add a mild onion flavor and a crunchy texture that enhances the overall experience.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Mashed Turnips: This low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes offers a slightly sweet flavor that complements the richness of the stew.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping into the broth—perfect for soaking up every last drop!
• Roasted Root Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized bring sweetness and texture that pair wonderfully with the savory flavors of your beef stew.
• Green Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew, balancing out your meal nicely.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re all set to create an incredible dining experience featuring your delicious beef stew with bacon, apples, and prunes! Enjoy every comforting bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This beef stew with bacon, apples, and prunes is a fantastic choice for meal prep! It develops even more flavor as it sits, making it perfect for enjoying throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover beef stew in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the stew to cool completely before sealing and refrigerating.

Freezing

• Portion the beef stew into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label the containers with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stew overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring after each.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

Can I use different types of meat for this beef stew with bacon, apples, and prunes?

Absolutely! While beef shoulder is ideal for its rich flavor and tenderness, you can substitute with other cuts like chuck roast. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed.

What sides pair well with beef stew with bacon, apples, and prunes?

Hearty sides such as creamy mashed potatoes or buttery turnips complement this stew wonderfully. You can also serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How do I make this beef stew with bacon, apples, and prunes healthier?

To lighten it up, consider reducing the amount of bacon or using turkey bacon. You can also add more vegetables like carrots or celery to boost nutrition without sacrificing flavor.

Can I add vegetables to my beef stew with bacon, apples, and prunes?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or parsnips during the simmering stage. Just be sure to adjust cooking times so they become tender without overcooking.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

While this recipe relies on beef and bacon for its base flavors, you can create a vegetarian version by replacing the meat with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Final Thoughts

This beef stew with bacon, apples, and prunes is truly special—it combines comforting flavors that warm your heart and fill your home with delightful aromas. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I did! It’s perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners at home. Don’t hesitate to try it out; your taste buds will thank you!