by HollyB

Created on: December 31, 2008

There is nothing better on a cold winter day than a nice big bowl of hot beef stew.

Traditionally a family meal made from left-over meats and vegetables made to stretch the family food budget, beef stew has become a favorite comfort food for many. Our moms and grandmothers would simmer and stir a large pot for hours to serve up a hot filling meal for the whole family. In these modern times, however, the tedious task of slaving over a hot stove and cooking for hours is no longer an option for most of us.

My modern version of an old favorite is sure to please any busy cook and satisfy the whole family. This quick and easy beef stew makes a great hearty family meal even when you're pressed for time. Ingredients are easy to gather and prepare. Just throw everything in the pot and spend time on other things while it cooks.

This meal is also a big hit as an offering for pot-luck dinners and holiday parties. Get yourself ready for the party while the stew is in the oven-take it out of the oven and you're on your way. Add feta cheese for a flavorful kick and you'll get rave reviews for your gourmet style cooking.

Quick Easy Oven Stew

You'll need a large (6qt.), heavy, oven safe, stew pot with a cover.

Recipe serves 4-5 (Double recipe and use a bigger pot if you are feeding more people.)

Pre-heat oven to 350 F

Ingredients:

1 pound Stew Beef-cubed

2 Tbsp Olive Oil

Pinch of Salt (to taste)

Pinch of Pepper (to taste)

4 Tbsp Tomato Paste

tsp Cinnamon

tsp Cumin

1 tsp Oregano

2 tsp Minced Garlic

2 Tbsp Red wine vinegar

2-14 oz Cans of Beef Broth + one full (14 oz) can of water

3 Medium Potatoes-peeled and cubed

1 Large Yellow Onion-cubed

Optional:

4 oz. crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Directions: In the large stew pot: brown stew beef in oil on stove top over medium-high heat and season with salt and pepper. Turn off heat. Combine the rest of the ingredients (except feta cheese) in the pot with beef. Stir after each ingredient is added. Cover and bake at 350 F for 1hr 30 min. (until potatoes are tender). Serve hot. Garnish with feta cheese for added flavor.

Serve with garlic bread for a great filling meal.

For parties: pair with stuffed mushrooms and red wine.

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