beef Stew with Turkey Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

The beef Stew with Turkey Bacon, Apples, and Prunes is a delightful dish that combines savory beef with sweet and tangy apples and prunes. This hearty stew is perfect for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or any occasion where comfort food is needed. The unique blend of flavors provides a satisfying meal that’s both filling and flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef, turkey bacon, apples, and prunes creates a taste that’s both savory and slightly sweet.
• Hearty Meal: With generous portions, this stew serves up to eight people, making it ideal for dinner parties or family meals.
• Easy Preparation: The recipe involves straightforward steps, perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use seasonal apples or substitute with other fruits as desired; the recipe remains delicious.
• Comforting Dish: This stew warms you up from the inside out, making it great for chilly evenings.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your beef stew, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

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: Perfect for browning meat and simmering the stew evenly without burning.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping ingredients safely.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for vegetables and meat, which helps in even cooking.
• Slotted spoon: Ideal for removing cooked turkey bacon from the pot without taking excess fat.

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Ingredients

To create the delicious beef Stew with Turkey Bacon, Apples, and Prunes, gather the following ingredients:

• 3 ½ – 4 lb beef shoulder
• ½ lb Turkey 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

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

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Trim any excess fat from the beef shoulder. Cut the beef shoulder into 2-inch chunks and pat dry. Cut the Turkey Bacon into strips or cubes and set aside. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat a large braiser or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the beef pieces with kosher salt. Add olive oil to the pan; when hot, begin browning the beef in batches. Cook until browned on several sides.

Step 3: Cook the Turkey Bacon

After browning the beef, add Turkey Bacon to the braiser. Sauté until crispy. Remove turkey bacon with a slotted spoon; transfer to paper towels to drain. Spoon off all but two tablespoons of fat in the braiser.

Step 4: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add onions to the braiser; sauté over medium heat for about three to four minutes until softened. Add minced garlic; cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Deglaze and Simmer

Deglaze the pan with cider (or apple juice) and bring to a simmer. Add both Dijon mustard and grainy mustard along with thyme sprigs and half a teaspoon of kosher salt.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Return browned beef to the braiser along with any accumulated juices. Pour in chicken broth; bring liquid just to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer gently on low for one hour.

Step 7: Add Prunes and Apples

Skim excess fat off braising liquid. Add prunes and cooked Turkey Bacon; continue simmering covered on low for fifteen minutes. Quarter apples; cut into slices. Add apple slices; cook another ten to fifteen minutes until tender.

Step 8: Thicken Stew

Spoon out about a quarter cup of braising liquid into a small bowl; let cool briefly. Whisk cornstarch into reserved liquid until there are no lumps. Stir cornstarch slurry into stew; cook for another couple of minutes until thickened.

Final Step: Serve

Serve this hearty beef stew alongside creamy mashed turnips or potatoes for an ultimate comfort meal!

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

Serving beef stew with turkey bacon, apples, and prunes is a delightful experience. This hearty dish can be complemented with various sides and garnishes to enhance the flavors. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Thyme sprigs: Garnish with whole thyme sprigs for an aromatic touch that complements the stew.

Pair with Bread

• Crusty bread: Serve with a loaf of crusty bread for dipping into the rich broth.
• Garlic bread: Offer garlic bread as a flavorful side that adds texture and aroma.

Include a Salad

• Mixed greens salad: A light salad with mixed greens, apples, and walnuts balances the richness of the stew.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a crunchy contrast to the tender beef stew.

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

Perfecting your beef stew requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out beautifully every time.

• Choose quality meat: Opt for well-marbled beef shoulder for tenderness and flavor.
• Brown the meat well: Ensure that each piece of beef is browned properly for depth of flavor in the stew.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices enhance the overall taste of your stew.
• Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste periodically while cooking; add salt or spices slowly to avoid over-seasoning.
• Let it rest: Allow the stew to rest after cooking; flavors deepen as it cools slightly before serving.

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

To make your meal complete, consider serving these delicious side dishes alongside your beef stew. Each option brings something unique to the table.

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Fluffy mashed potatoes soak up the savory broth perfectly.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition.
3. Buttered Noodles: Simple buttered egg noodles are great for scooping up stew.
4. Rice Pilaf: Lightly seasoned rice pilaf provides a nice base for the hearty stew.
5. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread complements the savory elements of the dish beautifully.
6. Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans offer a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the stew.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making beef stew, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Overcooking the Beef: Cooking the beef for too long can make it tough. Instead, simmer gently and check for tenderness at intervals.
• Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the beef can lead to a lack of flavor. Take the time to brown the meat for a rich base.
• Using Low-Quality Broth: Poor-quality broth can dilute flavors. Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought broth for the best results.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Tasting and adjusting seasoning is crucial. Always taste your stew before serving and add salt or spices as needed.
• Adding All Ingredients Too Early: Adding all ingredients at once can lead to uneven cooking. Follow the recipe steps to enhance flavors gradually.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing beef Stew with Turkey Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating beef Stew with Turkey Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between, until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat while stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making beef stew with turkey bacon, apples, and prunes.

Can I use other meats instead of beef?

Yes! You could substitute chicken or lamb if you prefer different flavors in your stew.

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

This stew pairs well with creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread for a hearty meal.

How do I make my stew thicker?

To thicken your stew, use a cornstarch slurry as described in the recipe.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add carrots or potatoes for additional texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This beef stew with turkey bacon, apples, and prunes is not only hearty but also versatile. You can customize it by adding seasonal vegetables or adjusting spices according to your preference. Give this delicious recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!