This hearty and nostalgic stew, packed with ground beef, potatoes, corn, and tomatoes, is a simple and satisfying dish that brings back warm memories of home-cooked meals. It's perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a comforting, one-pot dinner that fills your kitchen with delicious aromas. With easy-to-find ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, this stew is an ideal go-to meal that reminds you of the flavors of childhood.
Brown the ground beef:
In a large skillet or pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess grease, but leave a little to add flavor.
Sauté the onion:
In the same pan, add the diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Add liquids and bouillon:
Pour in the water and tomato sauce, then add the chicken bouillon. Stir well to combine, and taste to adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Incorporate the vegetables:
Stir in the chopped potatoes and sweet corn. Mix everything well so that the vegetables are evenly distributed in the stew.
Simmer until tender:
Cover the pot and simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a little more water if necessary to keep the stew from drying out. Cook until the potatoes are tender, which should take about 20-25 minutes.
Serve and enjoy:
Once the potatoes are fully cooked and tender, remove the stew from the heat. Serve hot, and enjoy the cozy flavors that remind you of the comfort of home.
Add more veggies: You can include other vegetables like carrots, peas, or green beans for added nutrition and flavor.
Spice it up: For a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking.
Thicken the stew: If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash a few of the cooked potatoes into the stew or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) toward the end of cooking.
Leftovers: This stew tastes even better the next day, so feel free to store leftovers in the fridge for a quick and satisfying meal later in the week.
Childhood Comfort Stew is an easy-to-make, flavorful dish that brings back fond memories of family meals around the dinner table. With simple ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, and corn, this stew offers warmth and satisfaction, making it perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy the cozy, nostalgic flavors and the joy of sharing this comforting meal with loved ones!