beef Stew with Turkey Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

Beef Stew with Turkey Bacon, Apples, and Prunes is a delightful dish that uniquely combines savory and sweet flavors, making it perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions. This recipe not only showcases tender beef shoulder but also incorporates the smokiness of turkey bacon along with the sweetness of apples and prunes. It’s hearty, comforting, and sure to impress your family and friends at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of turkey bacon, apples, and prunes adds a unique twist to traditional beef stew.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with creamy mashed turnips or potatoes for a complete meal that suits various tastes.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: This stew makes an excellent centerpiece for festive dinners or holiday gatherings.
• Hearty and Filling: Each serving is packed with protein and nutrients, guaranteeing satisfaction.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your beef stew with turkey bacon, apples, and prunes, gather your essential kitchen tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large braiser or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Slotted spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large braiser or Dutch oven: Ideal for browning meat evenly and simmering dishes over low heat.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures safe and precise cutting of ingredients.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for lifting cooked turkey bacon from the pan without excess grease.

Ingredients

For the Beef Stew

• 3 ½ – 4 lb beef shoulder
• ½ lb Turkey Bacon
• 1 large onion
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• kosher salt (as needed)
• 1 x 500 ml can hard cider (or apple juice)
• 2 tbsp grainy mustard
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup prunes
• 2 apples
• 2 tbsp cornstarch

How to Make Beef Stew with Turkey Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

1. Trim any excess fat from the beef shoulder.
2. Cut the beef shoulder into 2-inch chunks and pat dry.
3. Cut the turkey bacon into strips or cubes and set aside.
4. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

1. Heat a large braiser or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Season the beef pieces with kosher salt.
3. Add olive oil to the pan; once hot, brown the beef in batches until browned on several sides.

Step 3: Cook the Turkey Bacon

1. After browning the beef, add turkey bacon to the braiser.
2. Sauté until crispy then remove with a slotted spoon to drain on paper towels.
3. Spoon off all but 2 tablespoons of fat in the braiser.

Step 4: Sauté Onions and Garlic

1. Add diced onions to the braiser; sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
2. Add minced garlic; cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Deglaze with hard cider; bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in both mustards along with thyme sprigs and ½ tsp kosher salt.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

1. Return browned beef along with accumulated juices back into the braiser.
2. Pour in chicken broth; bring to a boil briefly.
3. Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer gently on low for 1 hour.

Step 6: Add Fruits

1. Skim excess fat off the liquid after an hour of simmering.
2. Add prunes and cooked turkey bacon; continue simmering covered on low for an additional 15 minutes.
3. Quarter apples then cut into slices; add apple slices to stew cooking for another 10 to 15 minutes until tender.

Step 7: Thicken the Stew

1. Spoon out about ¼ cup of braising liquid into a small bowl; let cool briefly.
2. Whisk cornstarch into reserved liquid until no lumps remain.
3. Stir cornstarch slurry into stew; cook for another couple of minutes until thickened.

Step 8: Serve Your Stew

Serve this comforting beef stew with hearty sides like creamy mashed turnips or potatoes and enjoy!

How to Serve beef Stew with Turkey Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

Serving your beef stew with turkey bacon, apples, and prunes can elevate the dining experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this hearty dish.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Slice a baguette for dipping into the rich broth.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls are perfect for soaking up the stew’s flavors.

Add Creamy Sides

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the savory stew beautifully.
• Polenta: A smooth polenta offers a comforting base for each serving.

Enhance with Vegetables

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness balances the sweetness of the apples and prunes.
• Steamed Green Beans: A fresh, crunchy side adds color and nutrition.

Serve with Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette refreshes the palate between bites of stew.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons create a delightful contrast.

How to Perfect beef Stew with Turkey Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

Perfecting your beef stew is all about technique and ingredients. Use these tips to enhance your dish.

• Choose Quality Beef: Opt for well-marbled beef shoulder for tenderness and flavor.
• Sear Well: Browning the meat properly develops rich flavors in your stew.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme adds a fragrant touch that dried herbs can’t match.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go and adjust salt to avoid over-seasoning.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the stew to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld flavors.
• Thicken Wisely: Add cornstarch slowly to avoid lumps in your delicious broth.

Best Side Dishes for beef Stew with Turkey Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

Pairing side dishes with your beef stew enhances its flavors and creates a well-rounded meal. Here are some perfect complements.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread infused with garlic is great for mopping up sauce.
2. Creamy Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm stew.
3. Roasted Root Vegetables: Carrots and parsnips add sweetness that harmonizes with the prunes.
4. Quinoa Salad: This nutty dish adds protein while keeping things light.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Slightly sweet muffins pair wonderfully with savory stews.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Filled with grains or cheese, they bring extra heartiness to the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making beef stew with turkey bacon, apples, and prunes, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes and how to steer clear of them:

• Using tough cuts of beef: Always choose a tender cut like beef shoulder for the best texture. Tough cuts will not break down well during cooking.
• Skipping browning the meat: Browning adds depth and flavor. Take the time to brown the beef in batches for optimal taste.
• Neglecting to season properly: Under-seasoning can lead to bland stew. Make sure to taste throughout and adjust salt as needed.
• Forgetting to deglaze: Skipping the deglazing step loses essential flavors stuck in the pan. Use cider or broth to lift those flavors before simmering.
• Overcooking the apples: Apples should remain slightly firm for texture contrast. Add them toward the end of cooking for best results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store beef stew in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing and refrigerating.

Freezing beef Stew with Turkey Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

• Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the stew may expand when frozen.

Reheating beef Stew with Turkey Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over medium-low heat while stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this beef Stew with Turkey Bacon, Apples, and Prunes unique?

This stew combines rich beef flavor with sweet apples and prunes, creating a delightful balance of savory and sweet that enhances your meal.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute chicken or pork in this recipe if you prefer a different protein option while keeping similar flavors.

How do I customize my beef Stew with Turkey Bacon, Apples, and Prunes?

Feel free to add vegetables such as carrots or potatoes for more texture. You can also experiment with different herbs like rosemary or sage.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This stew holds up well in the fridge or freezer, making it an excellent choice for meal prep that can be enjoyed later.

Final Thoughts

This beef stew with turkey bacon, apples, and prunes is not just a comforting dish; it’s versatile enough for any occasion. With a perfect blend of flavors and textures, it invites creativity in customization. Give it a try; your taste buds will thank you!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Beef Stew with Turkey Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Beef Stew with Turkey Bacon, Apples, and Prunes is a delightful dish that marries savory and sweet elements for an unforgettable meal experience. This unique stew features tender beef shoulder enriched with the smokiness of turkey bacon, complemented by the natural sweetness of apples and prunes. Perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions, this hearty stew is sure to impress your family and friends. It’s not just delicious; it’s easy to prepare, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 ½ – 4 lb beef shoulder
• ½ lb turkey bacon
• 1 large onion
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 can hard cider (500 ml) or apple juice
• 2 tbsp grainy mustard
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• Fresh thyme
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup prunes
• 2 apples

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Instructions

1. Trim excess fat from beef shoulder, cut into chunks, and pat dry. Dice onion and mince garlic.
2. Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat; season beef with salt and brown in batches.
3. Cook turkey bacon until crispy; remove and drain on paper towels.
4. Sauté onions until softened, add garlic, deglaze with hard cider, then stir in mustards and thyme.
5. Return beef to the pot, add chicken broth, bring to a boil, then simmer covered on low for an hour.
6. Add prunes and turkey bacon; simmer for another 15 minutes before adding quartered apples.
7. Thicken stew with a cornstarch slurry; cook until desired consistency is reached.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Braising
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 100mg