Every time I make Mulligan Stew, a wave of nostalgia washes over me. It takes me back to chilly afternoons in my cozy kitchen, where the scents of savory meat and fresh vegetables filled the air. I can still hear the laughter of my family gathered around the table, sharing stories and enjoying this hearty dish. Cooking has always been a way for me to bring my loved ones together, and this stew does just that! You see, Mulligan Stew is more than just a meal; it’s a tradition steeped in warmth and love. I remember my grandmother used to whip it up whenever there was a chill in the air, and now I do the same for my family. I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you because I believe once you make it, you’ll feel those same comforting vibes. So, pull up a chair and let’s dive into making this incredible stew together!
How to Make Mulligan Stew
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting dish. I always make sure to have these ingredients on hand because they’re not only essential, but they also create a delightful blend of flavors!
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Beef chuck roast | 2 pounds, cut into cubes |
| Onions | 2 medium, chopped |
| Carrots | 3 large, sliced |
| Potatoes | 4 medium, diced |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced |
| Beef broth | 6 cups |
| Tomato paste | 2 tablespoons |
| Bay leaves | 2 leaves |
| Fresh thyme | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
Personal note: I love adding fresh herbs like thyme and a little touch of rosemary—it makes everything smell and taste absolutely divine!
Cooking Steps
Now, let’s step into the kitchen together. I promise that the process is simple, and the smell will have your family wondering what’s cooking!
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
First things first, gather your ingredients. Chop the onions, slice the carrots, and dice the potatoes. I like to have everything ready before I start cooking. It makes the whole experience smoother and less stressful. You’ll thank me later!
2. Brown the Meat
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat up the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, making sure to brown them nicely on all sides. This step seals in the flavor, so don’t skip it! After about 5-7 minutes, remove the beef and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In the same pot, add the chopped onions and sauté until they’re soft and translucent—about 4 minutes. Then, toss in the minced garlic and stir for an additional minute. Oh, the smell is heavenly already!
4. Add the Carrots and Potatoes
Now, it’s time to bring in the carrots and potatoes. Stir them into the pot, letting them mingle with the onions and garlic for a couple of minutes. Your kitchen will start to feel like a warm hug!
5. Return the Beef to the Pot
Next, add the browned beef back to the pot along with any juices that accumulated. It’s time for this stew to come together!
6. Pour in the Broth
Slowly add the beef broth to the pot. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to capture all those delicious browned bits. Trust me, every little piece counts!
7. Stir in Tomato Paste and Herbs
Now, mix in the tomato paste, bay leaves, and thyme. Stir everything together until it’s well blended. The color is beautiful, and your mouth will start watering with anticipation!
8. Bring to a Simmer
Increase the heat and bring your stew to a gentle boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer away for about 1.5 to 2 hours. You know it’s ready when the beef is fork-tender!
9. Season to Taste
When the cooking time is up, taste your stew and add salt and pepper as needed. This is where you can adjust the flavors to your liking. I always find myself adding a little more thyme at this stage.
10. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Mulligan Stew warm in big bowls. I love to garnish it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if I have any on hand. Trust me, this stew is best enjoyed with a slice of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious flavors!
Why I Love Making This Dish
What I adore about Mulligan Stew is its flexibility. You can throw in whatever vegetables you have in your fridge and it will still turn out delicious. It’s like a big hug in a bowl! Plus, this dish is the perfect way to warm up on a cold night or a rainy day. There’s something incredibly satisfying about watching it simmer and knowing that a hearty meal is just around the corner.
Tips for Perfect Results
Sear the Meat Well: Make sure you brown the beef properly. This caramelization adds so much flavor to your stew.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs take the taste up a notch, but if you only have dried on hand, that’s okay too!
Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to toss in any vegetables you like or have left over—like peas or green beans. The more colorful, the better!
Cook Low and Slow: Patience is key. Let the stew simmer gently; this allows the flavors to meld perfectly.
Serving Suggestions and Sides
Mulligan Stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the savory broth. I also love serving it with a simple green salad on the side. Sometimes, I sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese on top of my stew for an extra flavor kick!
Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let me tell you—they’re even better the next day! Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge; it will keep for about 3-4 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. Remember, this stew is like fine wine—it gets better with time!
FAQ Section
Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! While beef is traditional, I’ve made this stew with chicken or even pork when I’ve run out of beef. You do you!
Can I freeze Mulligan Stew?
Yes! Just cool it completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will freeze well for about 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
What can I serve with Mulligan Stew?
Besides bread and salad, cornbread is another personal favorite of mine! The sweetness complements the savory stew so beautifully.
Can I skip the tomato paste?
You can, but I think the taste really benefits from it! If you want to skip it, just add a little extra broth to keep the stew flavorful.
Conclusion
This Mulligan Stew recipe has become a staple in our home, and I can hardly wait for you to try it! The comforting flavors and the warmth it brings remind me of family gatherings and the love that goes into cooking for those we hold dear. I know you’ll love this stew as much as I do! It’s straightforward, delicious, and full of memories waiting to be made. So gather your family around the table, dig in, and let me know how it turns out. I’m excited to hear if your loved ones ask for seconds, just like mine do!