If you are looking for a hearty, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, this Mulligan Stew Recipe will become your new go-to. Packed with tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and rich, savory broth, this stew combines simplicity and depth in every spoonful. It’s an old-fashioned stew that welcomes flexibility and creativity, making it perfect for using up pantry staples or adding your favorite fresh produce. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this Mulligan Stew Recipe offers a satisfying and nourishing meal that’s easy to love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Mulligan Stew Recipe plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding texture, flavor, or color. You don’t need anything complicated — just wholesome basics that come together beautifully to create a deep, rich stew.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Helps brown the beef to develop that rich, caramelized flavor.
- 1 pound beef chuck cut into bite-sized pieces: The heart of the stew, providing a tender, juicy protein packed with flavor.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and a savory base to the stew.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant punch that enhances the overall aroma and taste.
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced: Give the stew a comforting, creamy texture once cooked.
- 2 carrots, sliced: Contribute subtle sweetness and vibrant orange color.
- 2 celery stalks, sliced: Offer a mild bitterness that balances richness perfectly.
- 1 cup chopped cabbage: Adds a tender crunch and slightly peppery flavor for depth.
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes: Introduce acidity and body to round out the broth.
- 4 cups beef broth: Creates the luscious base for simmering and melding all the flavors together.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the ingredients’ natural flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Infuses a smoky warmth and lovely red hue.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Gives an herbal note that complements the beef wonderfully.
- 1 bay leaf: A classic aromatic that enriches the stew’s complexity during simmering.
How to Make Mulligan Stew Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the beef chuck pieces and brown them on all sides. This process seals in the juices and creates a deep, caramelized flavor base for the stew that you’ll be grateful for later.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Once the beef is nicely browned, toss in the chopped onion. Cook for three to four minutes until it softens and turns translucent, releasing its sweetness into the pot. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just one minute more to avoid burning but ensuring its fragrant aroma fills your kitchen.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Broth
Next, add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, celery, chopped cabbage, and canned diced tomatoes. Pour in the beef broth and sprinkle in salt, black pepper, paprika, dried thyme, and the bay leaf. Give everything a good stir to combine all those fresh, simple ingredients into one harmonious pot.
Step 4: Simmer for Perfection
Bring your stew to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to maintain a slow simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking allows the beef to tenderize and the vegetables to soak up all those delicious meaty flavors. The aroma now is exactly what comfort food dreams are made of.
Step 5: Final Touches
Before serving, remove the bay leaf and give the stew a taste. Adjust seasoning with a pinch more salt or pepper if needed, and get ready to dive into a soul-satisfying bowl of homemade goodness.
How to Serve Mulligan Stew Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few chives can brighten the deep flavors of the stew and add a fresh, green pop on top. If you want a little extra richness, a dollop of sour cream or a swirl of thick yogurt also works wonders.
Side Dishes
This stew is hearty enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls invites you to soak up every last drop of the savory broth. You can also serve it alongside a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast in texture and flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family meal, ladle the Mulligan Stew Recipe into rustic bowls and serve with a side of homemade cornbread. Or, for a fun twist, spoon the stew over creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice to create a comforting plate that’s sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Mulligan Stew tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within 3 to 4 days for the best freshness.
Freezing
This stew freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. After cooling, transfer the stew to freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, just thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
Reheat the stew gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. You can add a splash of water or broth if the stew seems too thick from sitting. Microwave reheating also works great for quick meals—just be sure to cover and stir halfway through heating.
FAQs
Can I use other meats instead of beef?
Absolutely! One of the best things about the Mulligan Stew Recipe is its flexibility. You can swap beef for chicken, sausage, or even keep it vegetarian by using hearty beans or mushrooms.
Do I have to use canned tomatoes?
Not at all. Fresh tomatoes can be used if in season and diced finely. They’ll add a fresher taste, though canned diced tomatoes provide convenience and a consistent flavor year-round.
Can I prepare this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Just brown the beef and sauté the onion and garlic first on the stovetop, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Mulligan Stew Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your beef broth does not contain gluten additives. Always check labels if purchasing store-bought broth.
What vegetables can I add if I want to customize?
Feel free to add or substitute with leftover vegetables like peas, green beans, corn, or bell peppers. This stew welcomes your creativity and turns whatever you have on hand into a delicious meal.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dish that brings so much warmth and flavor from humble ingredients, and this Mulligan Stew Recipe does exactly that. From the tender beef chunks to the vibrant veggies simmered in a fragrant broth, it’s a dish that comforts and nourishes the soul. I can’t recommend enough that you give it a try—invite some loved ones over and share the simple joy that comes with a great pot of Mulligan Stew.
Print
Mulligan Stew Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Mulligan Stew is a hearty and comforting American classic that combines tender beef chuck with a medley of fresh vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth. Perfect for chilly days, this flexible stew allows for ingredient substitutions, making it a warm and satisfying meal that’s easy to personalize.
Ingredients
Meat and Oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 pound beef chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 cup chopped cabbage
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
Liquids and Seasonings
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the beef chuck pieces and cook until browned on all sides to develop flavor.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook for three to four minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma.
- Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Incorporate the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, celery, chopped cabbage, canned diced tomatoes, and beef broth into the pot. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, dried thyme, and add the bay leaf. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the Stew: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the beef is fully cooked.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the bay leaf from the stew. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve the stew hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Mulligan stew is very flexible—you can add any leftover vegetables or substitute the beef with chicken or sausage to suit your taste.
- The flavors meld beautifully, so this stew tastes even better the next day after resting.
- For a thicker stew, you can mash some of the potatoes while cooking or add a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
