Sweet Potato Beef Stew with Vegetables and Herbs
A hearty and comforting stew that combines tender beef with sweet potatoes, carrots, and cabbage in a rich, herb-seasoned broth. The natural sweetness of the potatoes balances perfectly with the savory beef and aromatic herbs like thyme and basil. This wholesome one-pot meal is ideal for cold evenings when you want something warming and satisfying. The combination of root vegetables and leafy cabbage creates a well-rounded dish that's both nutritious and filling, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 pounds stew beefchuck roast1:1none
cut into chunks
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 ribs celery, diced
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 cups cabbage, sliced
- 14 ½ oz diced tomatoes, drained
- 32 oz beef broth
- 3 cups water
- 2 teaspoons thyme, dried
- 1 teaspoons basil, dried
- ½ teaspoons parsley, dried
Instructions
- 1
Warm oil in a large soup pot over medium heat
- 2
Add stew beef and cook until browned
- 3
Add diced onion and celery and cook until tender
- 4
Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds
- 5
Add tomato paste
- 6
Add sweet potatoes, carrots, cabbage, and diced tomatoes
- 7
Add beef broth and water
- 8
Season with thyme, basil, and parsley
- 9
Cook on medium heat for 40-45 minutes until potatoes are tender and beef is fully cooked
Tips
Brown the beef well for deeper flavor and better texture in the final stew.
Cut vegetables into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking throughout the stew.
Let the stew rest for 10 minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld together.
Good to Know
Refrigerate for up to 4 days in airtight containers. Reheat gently on stovetop.
Can be made 1-2 days ahead. Flavors improve overnight in refrigerator.
Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.
Common Mistakes
Don't skip browning the beef to avoid bland flavor
Cut vegetables uniformly to prevent uneven cooking
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown beef and vegetables first, then transfer to slow cooker with remaining ingredients. Cook on low 6-8 hours.
What if I don't have sweet potatoes?
Regular potatoes or butternut squash work well as substitutes with similar cooking times.
How long will leftovers keep?
Store in refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers.