Hearty Ground Bison Stew with Vegetables and Herbs
This rustic stew transforms lean ground bison into a comforting, protein-rich meal perfect for cold evenings. The gamey richness of bison pairs beautifully with classic vegetables like carrots and potatoes, while aromatic thyme and rosemary add depth. Unlike traditional beef stews, this version cooks relatively quickly thanks to the ground meat, making it an accessible weeknight dinner that still delivers the satisfying warmth of a slow-cooked meal. The result is a well-balanced stew with tender vegetables in a savory broth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Cook ground bison in large pot over medium heat until browned, then remove and set aside
- 2
Add chopped onion and minced garlic to same pot and cook until onion becomes translucent
- 3
Add beef broth, diced tomatoes, sliced carrots, and diced potatoes to pot and stir well
- 4
Return browned bison to pot and add salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and dried rosemary, stirring to combine
- 5
Bring stew to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 45 minutes or until vegetables are tender
- 6
Serve hot
Tips
Brown the bison thoroughly to develop deeper flavor and prevent the meat from becoming mushy during simmering.
Cut vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking - aim for 1-inch chunks for potatoes and carrots.
Let the stew rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and thicken slightly.
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days or freeze up to 3 months in airtight containers
Can be made 1-2 days ahead - flavors improve with time when reheated gently
Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice for a heartier meal
Common Mistakes
Don't skip browning the meat to avoid bland, mushy texture
Avoid overcooking vegetables to prevent them from becoming too soft
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, but add them in the last 20 minutes of cooking since they cook faster and can become mushy if overcooked.
What if I can't find ground bison?
Ground beef, venison, or even ground turkey work well as substitutes, though cooking times may vary slightly.
How long will this stew keep in the refrigerator?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze in portions for up to 3 months.