As the temperatures drop and the snowflakes start to fall, there’s nothing like a warm, comforting bowl of stew to cozy up with. This season, we’re trading in our salads and sandwiches for hearty, satisfying stews that are sure to become new family favorites. From classic beef and barley to spicy sausage and lentil, we’ve rounded up 20 delicious winter stew recipes to keep you warm and full all season long.
Whether you’re a busy parent looking for an easy meal solution or a foodie seeking inspiration for your next dinner party, these stews are sure to hit the spot. With a range of flavors and ingredients to choose from, you’re sure to find at least one recipe that becomes a new staple in your kitchen.
Stay tuned as we dive into each of these delicious winter stew recipes, sharing tips, tricks, and techniques for making the perfect pot of goodness…
Classic Beef and Barley Stew
Classic Beef and Barley Stew Recipe
A hearty and comforting stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this classic recipe combines tender beef, nutty barley, and flavorful vegetables in a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck or brisket, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef cubes in a little oil over medium-high heat.
2. Remove the browned beef from the pot and set aside. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, carrots, celery, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Add the beef broth and barley to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2 hours or until the barley is tender.
5. Return the browned beef to the pot and simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumpling Stew
This hearty slow cooker stew is a perfect remedy for a chilly day or a weeknight dinner that’s easy to prepare. Tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich broth come together in this comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine the chicken, flour, baking powder, salt, and melted butter.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery on top of the chicken mixture.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and milk.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, mix together the dumpling ingredients (2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 tsp baking powder, and 1/4 tsp salt) in a bowl. Gradually add 1/2 cup warm water to form a dough.
6. Drop the dough by spoonfuls onto the stew, cover, and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
Spicy Sausage and Lentil Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the richness of sausage with the comfort of lentils, all wrapped up in a spicy blanket.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Return the sausage to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, add the cayenne pepper and stir to combine.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Potato and Leek Stew
A hearty and comforting stew that combines the natural sweetness of potatoes and leeks with a rich and creamy sauce, perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large leeks, cleaned and chopped
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped leeks and cook until they are tender and lightly browned, about 8-10 minutes.
2. Add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, chicken broth, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the stew until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the stew to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Moroccan Lamb and Chickpea Stew
This hearty stew is a flavorful blend of tender lamb, creamy chickpeas, and aromatic spices, transporting you to the vibrant markets of Morocco. Perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups lamb broth or beef broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the lamb, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot.
3. Add onions and garlic; cook until softened, 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add chickpeas, broth, browned lamb, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let stew for 2-3 hours or until lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Vegetable and Quinoa Stew
Warm up with this comforting stew that’s packed with nutrients and flavor. This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, corn, and tomatoes)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, and bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Serve the stew over the cooked quinoa.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Hungarian Goulash Stew
This hearty stew is a staple of Hungarian cuisine, made with tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and rich paprika broth. Serve with crusty bread or egg noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers, chopped
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups beef broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onions, garlic, bell peppers, and tomatoes. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Add the beef broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 hour or until the meat is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Beef Bourguignon Stew
This iconic stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cold winter’s night. With tender beef, mushrooms, and vegetables slow-cooked in rich red wine, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup red wine (Burgundy or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the beef cubes, then set aside.
3. Add onion, garlic, and mushrooms; cook until tender.
4. Add wine, broth, tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir well.
5. Return browned beef to pot; cover and simmer for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
White Bean and Kale Stew
This hearty stew combines creamy cannellini beans with the earthy flavor of kale, perfect for a comforting and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups chopped curly kale, stems removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the kale and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the cannellini beans, vegetable broth, and white wine (if using); bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Stew
This creamy and aromatic stew is a staple of Thai cuisine, perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends. With its rich coconut milk flavor and subtle spice, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized red bell peppers, sliced
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, bell peppers, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in ginger, curry paste, and fish sauce (if using); cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in coconut milk and vegetable broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Thai Coconut Curry Stew!
Venison and Root Vegetable Stew
This rich and flavorful stew is perfect for a chilly evening, combining the tender flavor of venison with the natural sweetness of root vegetables. With minimal prep time and simmering time, this recipe is ideal for a quick yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb venison steaks or ground venison
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium-sized parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tbsp tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, sauté the chopped onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the venison and cook until browned, breaking into smaller pieces if using ground venison.
4. Add the carrots, parsnips, sweet potato, beef broth, and tomato paste. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Simmer for 2-3 hours or until the vegetables are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
French Onion Stew with Gruyère Croutons
A rich and flavorful stew that combines the classic flavors of caramelized onions, beef broth, and melted cheese with a crunchy topping of crispy Gruyère croutons.
Ingredients:
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 pound beef chuck or short ribs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
– 1 baguette, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook onions in butter over medium-low heat until caramelized, about 20 minutes.
3. Add beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add broth, thyme, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until beef is tender.
5. Meanwhile, toss baguette cubes with Gruyère cheese and bake until golden and crispy, about 10-12 minutes.
6. Serve stew hot, topped with croutons.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Smoky Black Bean and Sweet Potato Stew
This hearty stew combines the comforting warmth of sweet potatoes with the rich flavors of smoky black beans, all wrapped up in a fragrant broth. Perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened.
2. Add the smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the sweet potato, black beans, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lamb and Pearl Barley Stew
A hearty and comforting stew that combines the rich flavor of lamb with the nutty sweetness of pearl barley.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 cups pearl barley
– 4 cups lamb broth (or beef broth)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the lamb pieces over medium-high heat, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery, and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the pearl barley, lamb broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: About 2 hours (including browning time)
Chicken and Wild Rice Stew
Warm up with this comforting, flavorful stew that combines the richness of chicken with the nutty goodness of wild rice. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed wild rice blend
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic in a little bit of oil until browned.
2. Add the wild rice blend, chicken broth, peas and carrots, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 35-40 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tomato and Lentil Stew with Herbs
This hearty and flavorful stew is a perfect comfort food for a chilly evening. With the natural sweetness of tomatoes, the nutty taste of lentils, and the freshness of herbs, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, rosemary, and thyme; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the lentils, tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pork and Apple Cider Stew
A hearty and comforting fall favorite, this stew combines tender pork with the sweet and tangy flavors of apple cider.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 apples, peeled and chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Pour in apple cider, broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until pork is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. If desired, add chopped apples during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Seafood Chowder Stew
This hearty seafood chowder stew is a flavorful and comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening or a weekend gathering with friends and family. With a medley of seafood, vegetables, and aromatics, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels)
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 pint clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add clam juice, whisking constantly; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
6. Stir in heavy cream and seafood; cook until seafood is opaque, about 3-5 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Ratatouille-Inspired Vegetable Stew
This hearty vegetable stew is a nod to the classic Provençal dish Ratatouille, with its rich flavors and comforting warmth. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a side dish for your favorite protein.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 zucchinis, sliced
– 2 tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the bell peppers and zucchinis; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Add the tomatoes, vegetable broth, and thyme; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Mexican Pozole Stew with Hominy
Pozole is a traditional Mexican stew made with hominy and a variety of meats or vegetables. This recipe is a flavorful and comforting twist on the classic, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups hominy, rinsed and drained
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced radishes, lime wedges, crumbled queso fresco
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the hominy, cumin, oregano, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pork is tender.
5. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Cozy up this winter with these 20 hearty and comforting stew recipes! From classic beef and barley to spicy sausage and lentil, there’s something for everyone. Try a rich and creamy potato and leek stew or a bold Moroccan lamb and chickpea stew. If you’re looking for something vegetarian-friendly, try the vegetable and quinoa or ratatouille-inspired stews. And don’t forget about the international options, like Hungarian goulash and Thai coconut curry stews. Whether you’re in the mood for beef, chicken, pork, or seafood, there’s a stew recipe here to satisfy your cravings.