If you’ve ever craved a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, then this Mulligan Stew Recipe is calling your name. It’s a hearty and comforting concoction packed with tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and rich, savory broth that comes together in a way that’s both familiar and deeply satisfying. This classic stew recipe has been a favorite for generations because it’s not only delicious but incredibly versatile, making it perfect for family dinners or lazy weekend meals when you want something to nourish both body and soul.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for the Mulligan Stew Recipe is straightforward, but each plays a vital role in building those beloved layers of flavor and texture. From the tender beef to the medley of fresh and frozen vegetables, these components create a stew that’s both colorful and comforting.
- 1 1/2 lbs beef stew meat (chuck or round), cut into 1-inch cubes: The heart of the stew, providing rich flavor and tender texture after slow cooking.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Essential for searing the beef and developing a deep, caramelized base.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and aromatic depth as it softens.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: A small but powerful flavor booster that wakes up the whole stew.
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced: Adds natural sweetness and a lovely bite to the mix.
- 3 celery stalks, sliced: Offers a subtle freshness and a satisfying crunch that softens beautifully.
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced: Gives the stew a hearty, comforting body and soaks up all those delicious juices.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juices: Introduces slight acidity and brightness to balance the richness.
- 4 cups beef broth: The flavorful base that brings everything together in one luscious pot.
- 1 cup frozen peas: A pop of sweetness and color added at the end for freshness.
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned): Adds a gentle crunch and subtle sweetness for perfect contrast.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Deep umami that enriches the stew with complexity.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Earthy and aromatic, it infuses the broth with classic herbaceous notes.
- 1 bay leaf: A secret little detail that imparts subtle depth during simmering.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: To enhance and balance all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Mulligan Stew Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Beef
Start by heating your vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. This hot oil is where the magic starts. Add the beef cubes in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear each batch until all sides are beautifully browned, about 5 to 7 minutes per batch. This browning step is essential because it locks in the beef’s flavor and adds a rich, savory foundation to the stew. Once done, transfer the beef to a plate to rest for now.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion. Let it cook until it becomes soft and translucent, roughly 3 minutes. The onion adds a sweet and gentle base note. Then, add the minced garlic, stirring for about 30 seconds. Garlic gives that inviting aroma that makes your kitchen smell like home. Be careful not to let it burn; you want it fragrant but not bitter.
Step 3: Build the Vegetable Base
Next, stir in the carrots, celery, and potatoes. These veggies bring a wonderful mix of textures and natural sweetness to the stew. Their vibrant colors also make the dish visually inviting. At this point, return the beautifully browned beef cubes into the pot, nestling them between the vegetables to soak up all those flavors.
Step 4: Add Liquids and Seasoning
Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices, then add the beef broth to cover everything generously. Sprinkle in the Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and toss the bay leaf into the mix. Finally, season with salt and black pepper to your liking. This combination creates a rich, layered broth that’s hearty and comforting, elevating your Mulligan Stew Recipe to something truly special.
Step 5: Simmer Slowly
Bring the stew to a boil, and then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for approximately 1 1/2 to 2 hours. This slow cooking process is where the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the vegetables soften perfectly while infusing the broth with their goodness. Patience here pays off in a big way!
Step 6: Final Touches
With about 10 minutes left on the clock, stir in the frozen peas and corn kernels. This last step introduces a pop of sweetness and color contrast that keeps each spoonful exciting and fresh. Remember to remove the bay leaf before serving, so all you taste is that perfect blend of ingredients coming together in a bowl.
How to Serve Mulligan Stew Recipe
Garnishes
Topping your Mulligan Stew Recipe with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few sprigs of thyme adds a lovely burst of color and a fresh herbal note that brightens the rich stew. A dash of cracked black pepper right before serving can also enhance the flavors and make each bite feel even more special.
Side Dishes
This stew is wonderful served alongside crusty bread that soaks up every last drop of savory broth. If you prefer something heartier, white rice or buttery mashed potatoes make excellent bases for ladling on this stew, turning it into a filling and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving your Mulligan Stew Recipe in rustic bread bowls for a charming, cozy presentation that doubles as an edible vessel. Alternatively, ladle it over creamy polenta or even inside a warm tortilla for a fun twist that blends familiar comforts with a unique flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Mulligan Stew Recipe tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld. Store cooled stew in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. Be sure to reheat gently to keep the meat tender and the veggies perfect.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, Mulligan Stew freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat your stew slowly on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to warm it evenly and preserve that comforting texture. If it has thickened too much, simply add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it back up.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of stew meat in the Mulligan Stew Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground beef is a great budget-friendly option and will still deliver delicious flavor, though the texture will be a bit different without those tender chunks. Just brown it thoroughly and proceed with the recipe as usual.
What vegetables can I add or substitute in Mulligan Stew Recipe?
This stew is very flexible. You can add green beans, turnips, mushrooms, or even parsnips to enhance flavor and texture. Feel free to tailor the veggies to your preference or what’s in season to make it your own.
Is there a vegetarian version of Mulligan Stew Recipe?
Yes! Simply replace the beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based meat alternatives, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The combination of root vegetables and seasoning still makes for a rich and satisfying stew.
How thick should the stew be?
The stew should have a thick yet saucy consistency—enough to coat your spoon but still easy to ladle. If you prefer it thicker, you can mash some of the potatoes in the pot or cook uncovered for a bit to reduce the liquid.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes! After searing the beef and sautéing the aromatics, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for about 4 hours until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Add peas and corn in the last 30 minutes.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about gathering around a steaming bowl of Mulligan Stew Recipe—it’s comfort in every bite and a meal that feels like home no matter the season. Whether you’re new to cooking stews or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a perfect way to warm up your kitchen and your soul. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your favorite dishes to share with friends and family.
Print
Mulligan Stew Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Mulligan Stew is a hearty, classic American beef stew that combines tender chunks of beef with a medley of vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners and features a rich blend of tomatoes, herbs, and Worcestershire sauce to enhance the depth of flavor. It’s easily adaptable with various vegetables and makes excellent leftovers.
Ingredients
Meat and Oil
- 1 1/2 lbs beef stew meat (chuck or round), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
Liquids & Seasonings
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juices
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches and sear on all sides until browned, about 5 to 7 minutes per batch. Transfer the browned meat to a plate to set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Add Vegetables and Beef: Stir in the sliced carrots, celery, and diced potatoes. Return the browned beef to the pot to combine with the vegetables.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, bay leaf, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer the Stew: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are soft.
- Finish with Peas and Corn: During the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas and corn kernels to the stew. Stir and cook until heated through.
- Serve: Remove and discard the bay leaf before serving. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice for a filling meal.
Notes
- Mulligan Stew is flexible; you can add other vegetables such as green beans or turnips according to preference.
- For a budget-friendly alternative, ground beef can be used instead of stew meat.
- This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or can be served over rice for a hearty dinner.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day as flavors continue to meld.
