This classic home-canned beef stew combines tender chunks of chuck roast with hearty vegetables in a rich bouillon broth. Pressure canning not only preserves the stew for up to two years but also infuses the meat and vegetables with deep, satisfying flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or emergency food storage, this recipe yields delicious homemade convenience in a jar.
Prepare your workspace by washing all jars, lids, and rings in hot soapy water or run through a dishwasher cycle. Keep jars hot until ready to use.
In a large pot, combine beef bouillon powder with water and bring to a boil, stirring occasionally to ensure bouillon dissolves completely.
While bouillon heats, cut meat into 1-inch cubes, dice onions, slice celery into 1-inch pieces, cut carrots into thick rounds, and quarter potatoes (ensure pieces are uniform for even cooking).
Add 1 teaspoon salt to each clean, hot jar. Layer ingredients loosely, starting with meat (about 1/2 pound per quart), followed by onions, celery, carrots, and potatoes, leaving 1-inch headspace.
Carefully ladle hot bouillon liquid into jars, ensuring liquid covers vegetables while maintaining 1-inch headspace. Remove air bubbles by running a plastic spatula or bubble remover around the inside of each jar.
Wipe jar rims clean with vinegar-dampened paper towel, center lids, and secure with rings until fingertip-tight (don't over-tighten).
Process in pressure canner according to manufacturer's directions at 10 pounds pressure (adjust for your altitude): 75 minutes for pints; 90 minutes for quarts
After processing, allow canner to depressurize naturally. Remove jars and cool undisturbed for 24 hours before checking seals and storing.
Notes
Always verify current pressure canning safety guidelines for your specific altitude and equipment before beginning.