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Healthy Apple Cider Beef Stew Recipe

This hearty and healthy apple cider beef stew combines tender beef and root vegetables simmered in aromatic apple cider for a subtly sweet, comforting dish.
With a lighter broth than traditional tomato-based stews, this recipe uses turnips for a refreshing twist and is perfect for cozy nights.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Stew
Cuisine American-Inspired
Servings 4
Calories 765 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds beef stew meat cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil or extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion cut into chunks
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons arrowroot powder
  • 2 cups apple cider
  • 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 large or 2 small turnips chopped
  • 4 medium carrots sliced
  • 3 celery ribs chopped
  • Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Season the Beef: Use paper towels to pat the beef dry, then sprinkle it evenly with salt and pepper to season.
  • Brown the Meat: Heat the avocado or olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Work in batches to sear the beef cubes for 2–3 minutes per side until browned all over. Transfer the seared beef to a plate and set aside.
  • Sauté the Onion: Add the onion chunks to the same pot, then pour in the apple cider vinegar. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot while cooking the onion for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  • Coat with Arrowroot: Return the browned beef to the pot with the onions. Sprinkle the arrowroot powder over the mixture and stir until the beef and onions are evenly coated and the powder is dissolved.
  • Build the Broth: Stir in the apple cider, beef broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot partially with the lid and let it simmer for about 1 hour.
  • Add Vegetables: After the beef has simmered, add the chopped turnips, carrots, and celery to the pot. Continue cooking for another 20–30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender when pierced with a fork.
  • Finish and Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. For an optional garnish, sprinkle fresh thyme sprigs on top, and enjoy the stew while warm.

Notes

  • Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating Instructions: Thaw frozen stew in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave for 1–2 minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition

Serving: 2cupsCalories: 765kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 64gFat: 42gSaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 179mgSodium: 716mgFiber: 4gSugar: 19g
Keyword Apple cider beef stew, Comfort food recipes, Fall stew recipe, Healthy beef stew recipe, healthy food recipes, Light beef stew recipe
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