††WELCOME25 promo code valid towards select BODi digital subscriptions (initial term only) in the U.S., U.K. and Canada only, promo code must be entered at checkout. Cannot be applied to kits and bundles that include a digital subscription. Codes are not transferable (unless otherwise indicated by BODi) and have no cash or other monetary value. Codes may not be combined with any other promotion, offer, discount, etc. unless otherwise indicated, and cannot be applied to previously placed orders. The code cannot be redeemed for cash or cash equivalents. BODi reserves the right to end or modify this promotion or these terms at any time for any reason without notice.

Beef Stew

Beef Stew

Beef stew is the kind of meal that announces itself: It hits you with a rich, mouthwatering aroma the moment you walk in the room.

Traditional beef stew is hearty and if you’re not careful with ingredients, it can turn into a calorie bomb.

So how do you make a healthier beef stew?

First, start with lean beef. This recipe uses just the right amount of olive oil to brown the meat without adding extra fat.

Low-sodium soy sauce and hot pepper sauce bring that umami element without the all the added sodium and fat.

In the interest of limiting sodium, we’ve also opted for low-sodium organic beef broth (in a pinch, you can also use water).

While carrots, potatoes, and celery make a great base for beef stew, button mushrooms amp up the meaty flavor of this stew. But don’t stop there: You can add any number of your favorite veggies.

Try broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or a last-second handful of fresh baby spinach to incorporate greens into your stew. Butternut squash, pumpkin, and red bell peppers can add vibrant color.

Remember that adding additional ingredients will alter your nutritionals a bit.

Pro tip: It’s easy to cook this beef stew in a slow cooker or Instant Pot. Simply brown the meat, then place all other ingredients into your cooker and follow the machine’s instructions for cook time.

Carrots, potatoes, and celery make a great base for this beef stew recipe, and button mushrooms amp up it's meaty flavor.
4.25 from 60 votes
Print

Beef Stew

This healthier Beef Stew begins with a lean cut of beef and maintains that classic low and slow stew flavor you know and love.

Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 1 hr 24 mins
Total Time 1 hr 39 mins
Servings 6 Servings
Calories 255 kcal
Author BODi

Ingredients

  • 1 Tbsp. olive oil
  • lbs. raw lean beef stew meat, boneless
  • medium onions chopped
  • 2 medium tomatoes chopped
  • ¼ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 Tbsp. hot pepper sauce (like Tabasco)
  • ½ to 1 cup low-sodium organic beef broth (or vegetable broth)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 8 oz. small button mushrooms cut in half
  • 2 medium celery stalks cut into 1-inch slices
  • 2 medium carrots sliced
  • 2 medium potatoes cubed
  • 2 Tbsp. finely chopped parsley (for garnish; optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in large saucepot over medium-high heat.

  2. Add beef; cook, stirring frequently, for 4 to 5 minutes, or until beef is browned.

  3. Add onions; cook, stirring frequently, for 4 to 5 minutes, or until onions are translucent.

  4. Add tomatoes, soy sauce, hot sauce, ½ cup broth, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low; cook, covered, for 40 minutes, adding additional broth as needed. 

  5. Add mushrooms, celery, carrots, and potatoes; cook, covered, for an additional 12 to 18 minutes, or until sauce has thickened and beef is fork tender.

  6. Garnish evenly with parsley if desired.  

Container Equivalents
1 Green
1 Red
1 Yellow

2B Mindset Plate It!
Makes a great lunch option. Leave out the potatoes for a great dinner.

If you have questions about the portions, please click here to post a question in our forums so our experts can help. Please include a link to the recipe.

Carrots, potatoes, and celery make a great base for this beef stew recipe, and button mushrooms amp up it's meaty flavor.

Beef Stew recipe photographs by Anguel Dimov and Brianne B of Natural Girl Modern World