One of my most requested (and most loved!) recipes is my hearty oven-braised beef stew. It’s a staple in our home, especially during the colder months or whenever we need a little comfort to nurse us back to health.
This stew is the ultimate comfort food—warm, hearty, and filled with all the nutrients we need. Not only does it taste amazing, but it also checks all the boxes for a well-rounded Fab Four meal: protein, fat, fiber, and greens. Let me break down what makes it perfect for boosting immunity, fueling our bodies, and more:
Protein: The stew is rich in protein from grass-fed beef, which supports muscle repair, immune function, and helps keep us full and satisfied for longer. Grass-fed beef offers even more benefits than conventionally raised beef—it’s higher in essential omega-3 fatty acids, which play a crucial role in reducing inflammation and supporting brain health. It's also packed with vitamins like vitamin B12, which helps support energy production and red blood cell formation. It's not just about the protein—it's about the high-quality, nutrient-dense protein that grass-fed beef brings to the table.
Fat: Healthy fats from a high-quality cooking oil, like beef tallow, Zero Acre oil, or avocado oil, are essential for brain function, hormone balance, and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K. These fats help to support cognitive function, making them an important part of a balanced diet. Additionally, healthy fats provide sustained energy, helping to keep everyone full and satisfied for longer, which is a game-changer when you've got a house full of hungry boys.
Fiber + Greens: The fiber in this stew comes primarily from the vegetables—carrots, celery, and any other veggies you decide to toss in. Fiber is essential for gut health, and a healthy gut is the cornerstone of a strong immune system. It aids digestion, helps regulate blood sugar, and keeps us feeling satisfied, making it key for overall wellness. The fiber-rich veggies also support a healthy microbiome, which plays a major role in reducing inflammation and promoting better immunity.
But it doesn't stop there—the greens and vegetables in the stew are packed with antioxidants and vitamins that help protect the body from harmful free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. Whether it's spinach, kale, or even seasonal root vegetables, the possibilities are endless. The best part about stews is their versatility—feel free to toss in whatever greens or veggies you have on hand to customize the stew to your liking, all while boosting its nutrient density. The more colorful, the better!
The Secret Ingredient: One of the key ingredients that really makes my beef stew shine is the high-quality bone broth. My go-to is FOND Bone Broth—it’s not only rich in flavor but made using regenerative farming practices that support the planet. Bonus: FOND is a women-owned company. If you haven’t tried it yet, I highly recommend it—it brings a depth of flavor and richness to the stew that you just can’t get from any other broth. Use my code BEWELLBYKELLY for 20% off your first order.
This stew has been a go-to in our home for years, and I know it will become a family favorite in yours, too. And the best part about this stew is that you can make a large batch to last for several days (or even a week), so you’ll always have a nourishing, hearty meal on hand. Whether you're looking to prepare for a busy week ahead or just craving a comforting dish, this stew is always a crowd-pleaser. I make it in big batches—usually once a week—so there’s always enough to feed a house full of hungry boys, and the leftovers are even better!
