Poor Man’s Stew

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Simple ingredients, big comfort 🤔 Would you eat Poor Man’s Stew?

Introduction

Poor Man’s Stew is a humble, hearty dish built on affordability, nourishment, and comfort. Made with basic pantry staples, this stew proves that simple ingredients can come together to create a deeply satisfying meal. It’s the kind of food that warms the body and soul, especially on chilly days or when you need a filling, no-frills dinner.

Origin

Poor Man’s Stew traces its roots to times of economic hardship, particularly during the Great Depression in the United States. Families relied on inexpensive ingredients—potatoes, ground meat, canned vegetables, and tomatoes—to stretch meals and feed many mouths. Similar versions exist worldwide, wherever people needed to make the most of what they had.

Cultural Significance

This stew represents resilience, creativity, and practicality in home cooking. It reflects how families adapted recipes to survive tough times, passing down dishes that emphasized nourishment over luxury. Today, Poor Man’s Stew is appreciated not as a symbol of scarcity, but as a reminder of comfort food traditions and economical cooking wisdom.

Ingredients & Quantities (Serves 4–6)

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
  • 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 3 carrots, sliced
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14–15 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (8 oz / 225 g) tomato sauce
  • 2 cups beef broth or water
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
  • 1 tablespoon oil (for browning)

Optional Additions

  • 1 cup green beans or peas
  • ½ cup corn
  • A pinch of chili flakes for heat
  • Worcestershire sauce for deeper flavor
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Tips for Success

  • Brown the ground beef well to develop flavor.
  • Cut potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
  • Simmer gently; slow cooking improves taste and texture.
  • Taste near the end and adjust seasoning as needed.

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add ground beef and cook until browned; drain excess fat if necessary.
  3. Stir in onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and softened.
  4. Add potatoes, carrots, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth.
  5. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and herbs.
  6. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Cook until potatoes are tender and the stew has thickened.
  8. Add optional vegetables during the last 10 minutes if using.

Description

Poor Man’s Stew is thick, savory, and comforting. Tender potatoes and carrots soak up the rich tomato-based broth, while ground beef adds hearty texture. Each spoonful is simple, filling, and nostalgic—perfect with crusty bread or on its own.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

  • Calories: 350–400 kcal
  • Protein: 20–25 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30–35 g
  • Fat: 15–18 g
  • Fiber: 4–6 g

Conclusion

Poor Man’s Stew is proof that good food doesn’t need to be expensive or complicated. It’s a timeless recipe that delivers comfort, nourishment, and satisfaction using everyday ingredients.

Recommendation

Serve this stew as a family dinner, meal-prep option, or cozy weekend dish. Pair it with bread or a simple salad for a complete meal that’s both budget-friendly and deeply comforting.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

While modest in ingredients, Poor Man’s Stew offers balanced nutrition and lasting fullness. By using lean meat, extra vegetables, and controlled seasoning, you can enjoy this classic comfort dish while still supporting a wholesome, sensible way of eating.

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