Low Carb Beef Stew (Gluten-free, Keto, Whole30)
A rich tasting low carb beef stew without potatoes featuring meltingly tender beef chuck and perfectly cooked vegetables. Your gluten free ketogenic diet just got better.
A rich tasting low carb beef stew without potatoes featuring meltingly tender beef chuck and perfectly cooked vegetables. Your gluten free ketogenic diet just got better.
- salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 2 cloves garlic sliced
- 1 large bay leaf
- 1 1/4 pound trimmed beef chuck roast cubed (1 inch)
- 8 ounces whole mushrooms quartered
- 6 ounces celery root peeled and cubed into 3/4 inch pieces ((or sub turnips or radish
- 4 ounces pearl onions trimmed and peeled (or regular onion, large dice)
- 2-3 ribs celery sliced
- 3 ounces carrot, roll-cut (or sliced)
- 2 tbsp olive oil avocado oil, or bacon grease
- 5 cups beef broth (i used kettle and fire bone broth)
- marjoram winter savory, oregano, summer savory, juniper berries, clove,
- Carbohydrate 47.8130143824447 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 8.29477094688456 g
- Fiber 12.1894246435712 g
- Protein 10.147772249964 g
- Saturated Fat 1.24309325596201 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (1213g)
- Sodium 1246.33417058559 mg
- Sugar 35.6235897388735 g
- Trans Fat 0.629399309876799 g
- Calories 277 calories
Step-by-step
- Remove the chuck roast from the refrigerator to come to temperature. Quarter the mushrooms and set aside. Wash and chop the vegetables, putting them together in a bowl for later.
- Trim the excess fat off of the chuck roast (pot roast) and cut into 1-inch cubes. (I used 1 1/4 pounds of meat, but you may use more if you wish.) Thoroughly mix two teaspoons of oil into the beef.
- Place a dutch oven or heavy bottomed pot on the stove over medium heat. When hot, add the rest of the oil and swirl to coat the bottom of the pot. Add the mushrooms and stir to coat. Do not disturb them for 2 minutes. Stir and let them cook for two minutes more. Remove the mushrooms from the pot and add them to the other vegetables.
- Brown the beef in the pot in batches, adding more oil as needed. Place all of the beef into the pot and stir in the bay leaf, thyme, and tomato paste, making sure to coat the beef. Let it cook for less than a minute, then slowly add 1 cup of broth while scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Add the rest of the broth and bring the stew up to a simmer. Cover and reduce the heat to low-ish and simmer gently for 1 1/2 hours.
- Insert a fork into a piece of meat to check for tenderness; it should meet little to no resistance. If tough, let it cook another 20 minutes. When tender, add the vegetables and turn up the heat until it simmers.
- Turn down the heat and simmer uncovered for 40 minutes to an hour or until the vegetables and meat are tender. Add salt and pepper to taste.
My Low-Carb Beef Stew Adventure: A Busy Mom's Guide to Keto Comfort Food
As a busy mom juggling work, kids, and a never-ending to-do list, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like an impossible task. But I've discovered a secret weapon in my kitchen: slow cooking! And this low-carb beef stew is a testament to how simple, satisfying, and healthy meals can be, even amidst the chaos of everyday life. Forget complicated recipes and endless prep time; this stew is surprisingly easy and the flavors are absolutely incredible. The meltingly tender beef chuck and perfectly cooked vegetables are a perfect example of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. It’s become a staple in our house, a comforting and flavorful dish the entire family enjoys, particularly on busy weeknights. I love that it's also keto-friendly and whole30 approved, so I don't have to compromise on my health goals.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. I often tweak it based on what’s in my fridge or what my family is craving. Sometimes, I add a dash of Worcestershire sauce for an extra layer of umami, other times I experiment with different types of mushrooms or root vegetables. The possibilities are endless! One thing I’ve noticed is that the longer the stew simmers, the richer and more flavorful it becomes. The flavors truly meld together, creating a depth of taste that simply can’t be rushed. Don't be afraid to let it simmer gently for a longer period if you have the time; it's worth it! And honestly, the clean-up is a breeze. Most of the prep work happens upfront and then it’s just a matter of throwing everything into a pot and letting it simmer its way to deliciousness.
This recipe isn’t just about food; it’s about creating memories. The aroma filling my kitchen as the stew simmers reminds me of simpler times, of cozy evenings spent with family, and the pure joy of sharing a delicious, home-cooked meal. It's a reminder that even amidst the busyness of life, taking the time to create something nourishing and delicious for myself and my family is an act of self-care, an expression of love, and a cornerstone of our family traditions. It’s a testament to the power of food to bring people together, to foster connection, and to provide warmth and comfort. Beyond the culinary satisfaction, there’s a deep sense of accomplishment that comes with creating something healthy and wholesome from scratch. It's a feeling that far surpasses the convenience of a takeout menu.
So, if you’re looking for a simple yet extraordinary meal that will nourish your body and soul, give this low-carb beef stew a try. It’s a recipe that has become a true treasure in my kitchen, a constant source of warmth, comfort, and flavorful satisfaction. And I know it will become a favorite in your kitchen, too.
Ingredients to Note:
- Beef Chuck Roast: This cut of beef is incredibly flavorful and becomes incredibly tender during the slow cooking process. Don't be afraid to use a slightly larger amount of beef if you prefer a heartier stew.
- Bone Broth: I highly recommend using bone broth for its rich flavor and added nutritional benefits. If you can't find bone broth, a good quality beef broth will work just fine.
- Vegetables: Feel free to substitute or add your favorite vegetables. Root vegetables like turnips or parsnips would be delicious additions.
- Herbs and Spices: Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
Tips for Success:
- Brown the Beef: Browning the beef before adding the liquid helps to develop a deeper, richer flavor.
- Simmer Gently: Simmering the stew gently allows the flavors to meld together and the meat to become incredibly tender.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the stew before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Make it Ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day, making it a perfect make-ahead meal.
This low-carb beef stew is more than just a recipe; it's a journey of culinary exploration, a celebration of simple ingredients, and a testament to the power of home-cooked meals. Enjoy!
