If you’re looking for a cozy, richly flavorful meal that perfectly captures the essence of crisp autumn days, this **Fall Apple Cider Stew Recipe** is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender chunks of beef slowly simmered in a fragrant blend of apple cider and savory broth, mingling beautifully with sweet apples, hearty potatoes, and vibrant vegetables. This stew wraps you in warmth and comfort with every spoonful, making it the perfect dish to share with family or curl up with on a chilly evening.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this stew lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that each bring a unique layer of flavor, texture, and color. From the luscious sweetness of apple cider to the earthiness of beef and the tender bite of fresh vegetables, every component pulls its weight to create a truly satisfying dish.
- 2 lbs beef stew meat: Cubed into bite-sized pieces, this provides the hearty, melt-in-your-mouth centerpiece for the stew.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For browning the beef and bringing out deep, savory notes.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed to a translucent perfection.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: A fragrant punch that elevates every savory bite.
- 4 cups apple cider: The star ingredient – infusing the stew with a subtle fruity brightness and natural sweetness.
- 2 cups beef broth: Builds a rich, savory base that complements the cider’s tartness.
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced: Adds texture and natural sweetness.
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed: Creates a hearty, comforting thickness to the stew.
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped: Brings bursts of juicy sweetness that balance the savory flavors.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Adds a subtle tang and deepens the stew’s color.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the umami and overall complexity.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: A classic herb that ties the flavors together with a fresh, earthy note.
- 1 teaspoon salt: To season and highlight the natural taste of the ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that rounds out the dish.
- 2 bay leaves: Infuse a subtle, aromatic undertone perfect for slow cooking.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Stirred in at the end for a pop of color and sweet, delicate flavor.
How to Make Fall Apple Cider Stew Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat in batches if necessary, and brown it on all sides for about 5 to 7 minutes. This step locks in flavor and gives the stew its rich, meaty base. Once browned, set the beef aside so we can work on the next layer of flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Don’t rush this step! Sauté gently until the onion becomes translucent and releases its sweetness, about 3 to 4 minutes. The aroma alone will start to hint at the beautiful fall flavors unfolding.
Step 3: Combine Liquids and Beef
Return the browned beef to the pot and pour in the apple cider along with the beef broth. Give everything a good stir to meld the flavors and lift any browned bits from the bottom – these add incredible depth to your stew.
Step 4: Add Vegetables, Apples, and Seasonings
Now it’s time for the heart of the stew! Toss in the sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, chopped apples, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, pepper, and the bay leaves. Stir carefully so every ingredient is well coated, setting the stage for a symphony of autumn notes.
Step 5: Simmer Until Tender
Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer slowly for 1.5 to 2 hours. This low and slow cooking lets the beef become incredibly tender while the flavors marry beautifully, turning the stew into a luscious, aromatic masterpiece.
Step 6: Stir in Peas
About 10 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas. They add a fresh pop of color and subtle sweetness, finishing off the dish with a light, delicate contrast.
Step 7: Final Touches and Serve
Remove the bay leaves, give the stew one last stir, and serve hot. This stew feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, perfectly honoring the season’s bounty.
How to Serve Fall Apple Cider Stew Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or thyme leaves works beautifully here, adding a vibrant green pop and a subtle herbal brightness that complements the stew’s rich flavors. For a touch of creaminess, a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche is an inviting addition that makes each bite extra cozy.
Side Dishes
This stew stands well on its own but pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, perfect for soaking up every bit of that delicious sauce. A side of buttered green beans or a crisp autumn salad with tangy vinaigrette also balances the meal with fresh, bright notes.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests? Serve the stew in hollowed-out mini pumpkins or rustic bread bowls for a fun, seasonal presentation that immediately sparks joy. Garnishing with toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts adds an unexpected textural element that elevates the dish even more.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Fall Apple Cider Stew Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious! Just be sure to keep it chilled promptly after serving.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this comforting stew on a busy day, freezing is a great option. Let the stew cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep wonderfully for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Adding a splash of broth or water helps loosen the stew if it has thickened. Avoid high heat to keep the beef tender and the flavors fresh and vibrant.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of beef for this stew?
Absolutely! While beef is traditional and hearty, chicken thighs work well too and will reduce cooking time significantly. Just adjust the simmering to ensure the chicken remains tender and juicy.
Is apple cider necessary for this recipe?
Apple cider is key to delivering the sweet yet tangy note that makes this stew stand out. If unavailable, you can substitute with a mix of apple juice and a little lemon juice for acidity, but the flavor will be less complex.
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics first, then combine everything in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the beef is tender.
What type of apples works best in this stew?
Firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape well during cooking and provide a nice balance of tartness and sweetness that complements the savory elements.
Is this stew spicy?
No, this Fall Apple Cider Stew Recipe is more about warmth and mild seasoning. The black pepper adds just a gentle kick, allowing the natural flavors of apple cider and herbs to shine without overwhelming heat.
Final Thoughts
This Fall Apple Cider Stew Recipe is a warm, wholesome celebration of autumn’s best flavors all simmered into one comforting bowl. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s the kind of meal that makes chilly evenings feel like pure magic. So grab your pot, gather those simple ingredients, and dive into the deliciousness – you won’t regret it!
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Fall Apple Cider Stew Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 20m
- Cook Time: 2h 0m
- Total Time: 2h 20m
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Stew
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Fall Apple Cider Stew Mash combines tender beef stew meat with the sweet and tangy flavors of apple cider and fresh fall vegetables. Slow-simmered to perfection, this comforting stew features carrots, potatoes, and apples, enhanced with aromatic herbs and a touch of Worcestershire sauce. Perfect for cozy autumn dinners, it offers a delightful balance of savory and fruity elements in a warm, satisfying bowl.
Ingredients
Meat and Cooking Base
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Vegetables and Fruits
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas
Liquids and Sauces
- 4 cups apple cider
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 bay leaves
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Removing the beef once browned helps develop rich flavors and ensures even cooking. Set the beef aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-4 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for the stew.
- Add Liquids and Beef: Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the apple cider and beef broth, stirring gently to combine and deglaze the pot, which lifts up flavorful browned bits stuck on the bottom.
- Add Vegetables, Fruit, and Seasonings: Incorporate the sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, chopped apples, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and bay leaves into the pot. Stir everything together well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Simmer the Stew: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let the stew simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Finish with Peas: Approximately 10 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas. Continue cooking until the peas are heated through, adding a pop of color and sweetness to the stew.
- Serve: Remove the bay leaves before serving. Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy the warm, comforting taste of this fall-inspired apple cider stew mash.
Notes
- For a thicker stew, you can mash some of the potatoes and carrots in the pot before serving.
- Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste if needed at the end of cooking.
- Substitute beef broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor, although beef broth enhances the richness.
- Use fresh thyme instead of dried if available, using about 3 teaspoons fresh.
- This stew can be made a day ahead and reheated; flavors will deepen overnight.
- Serve with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a more filling meal.
