Grandpa’s Stew is a warm and inviting dish that brings nostalgia with every hearty spoonful. This comforting stew combines tender pork or beef with fresh vegetables and a kick of Korean chili that dances on your taste buds. Every family has that one recipe that feels like a hug in a bowl, and this stew might just be the one for you.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 410
- Protein: 29g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
Why Make This Grandpa’s Stew
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a steaming bowl of stew, especially one that brings your loved ones together. Grandpa’s Stew is not just filling; it has layers of flavor thanks to the savory blend of pork or beef, aromatic garlic and onion, and the slight heat from gochujang. The unique combination of ingredients makes it a delightful meal for any day of the week, whether it’s a chilly evening or just a casual gathering with friends.
How to Make Grandpa’s Stew
This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks. With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip up this delicious stew in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb pork belly or beef
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2-3 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 4 cups water or broth
- 2-3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2-3 tablespoons soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tofu (optional)
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
In a pot, cook the pork or beef over medium heat until browned on all sides. This step helps develop a rich flavor that forms the base of your stew.
Step 2: Mixing
Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté them together until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
Step 3: Cooking
Stir in the gochujang and soy sauce, making sure to coat the meat evenly. Pour in the water or broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer!
Step 4: Finishing
Add the zucchini and mushrooms (and tofu, if using) to the pot. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Finally, garnish with chopped green onions before serving for a fresh crunch.
How to Serve Grandpa’s Stew
Serve this lovely stew in deep bowls, soaking up every last bit of broth with some fresh bread or steamed rice. It makes a fantastic centerpiece for family dinners and can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.
How to Store Grandpa’s Stew
To store leftovers, let the stew cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the stew in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Expert Tips for Perfect Grandpa’s Stew
- Meat Choice: You can substitute pork belly with beef or even chicken if that’s what you have on hand.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of gochujang based on your heat preference. Less for a milder taste or more for an extra kick!
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add more vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
- Overnight Flavor Boost: Allowing the stew to sit overnight enhances the flavors, making for a more delicious meal the next day.
Delicious Variations
- Vegetarian Delight: Substitute the meat with tempeh or additional tofu and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- Spicy Vegetarian Stew: Add kimchi for a tangy twist while keeping it meat-free.
- Hearty Addition: Toss in some potatoes or sweet potatoes for a heartier meal that sticks to your ribs.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use frozen meat?
Yes, you can use frozen meat, but make sure to thaw it completely before browning to ensure even cooking. -
Is Grandma’s Stew suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep. -
What to serve with this stew?
Serve it with rice, bread, or a simple salad for a well-rounded meal. -
Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the meat and add all ingredients to the slow cooker, then cook on low for 6-8 hours. -
Can I skip the gochujang?
You can, but you might want to replace it with another chili paste or add some chili flakes for heat.
Conclusion
Grandpa’s Stew is a heartwarming dish that not only fills your belly but also warms your soul. With its rich flavors and simple instructions, it’s a recipe you’ll want to return to time and time again. Whether you’re looking to feed your family a cozy meal or delight guests at a gathering, this stew is bound to satisfy. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy cooking up a storm with this delightful recipe!
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Grandpa’s Stew
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
A warm and inviting stew with tender pork or beef, fresh vegetables, and a kick of Korean chili.
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork belly or beef
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2–3 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 4 cups water or broth
- 2–3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2–3 tablespoons soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tofu (optional)
Instructions
- In a pot, cook the pork or beef over medium heat until browned on all sides.
- Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
- Stir in the gochujang and soy sauce. Pour in the water or broth and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer.
- Add the zucchini and mushrooms (and tofu if using). Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Notes
This stew can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
