Hearty Low-Carb Beef Stew (No Potatoes)

Hearty Low-Carb Beef Stew (No Potatoes)

A rich, satisfying stew that doesn’t compromise on flavor while keeping carbs in check.

KEY INFO

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1.5-2 hours
• Total Time: 2.5 hours max
• Servings: 4-6
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Dietary: Low-carb, Keto, Paleo, Gluten-free
• Cost: $15-25

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

• Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Alternative: Slow cooker or Instant Pot

INGREDIENTS

For the Base:

• 1.5-2 lbs (680-900g) beef stew meat, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil or avocado oil
• 1 medium onion, diced (about 1 cup)
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 large zucchini, cut into chunks
• 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, quartered
• 4 cups (960ml) beef stock
• 1/2 cup (120ml) red wine (optional, replace with extra stock)

Seasonings:

• 2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary (or 1 tsp dried)
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tbsp sugar-free Worcestershire sauce

METHOD

1. Pat beef dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Heat oil in Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3. Brown meat in batches (3-4 minutes per side) until deeply golden. Don’t overcrowd – this is crucial for proper browning.
4. Remove meat, set aside.
5. In same pot, sauté onions and celery (5-7 minutes).
6. Add garlic, cook until fragrant (30 seconds).
7. Pour in wine if using, scrape bottom of pot. This releases all the flavorful browned bits.
8. Return meat to pot, add stock and herbs.
9. Bring to boil, reduce to simmer.
10. Cover and cook for 1 hour.
11. Add zucchini and mushrooms.
12. Cook additional 30 minutes until meat is fork-tender.

CRUCIAL TIPS

• Never skip the meat browning step.
• Keep vegetables chunky to prevent mushiness.
• Don’t add vegetables too early.
• Use low-sodium stock to control salt levels.

STORAGE & VARIATIONS

• Keeps 4 days refrigerated.
• Freezes well for 3 months.
• Scale recipe using 1:1 ratios.
• Try adding turnips or radishes for variety.