Step 1: Brown the Meat
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef cubes and cook until all sides are browned. Remove the beef and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
- If you have other fresh vegetables, add them at this stage to soften slightly.
Step 3: Deglaze and Simmer
- Pour a little beef broth into the pot and scrape the bottom to loosen any browned bits (this adds flavor to the stew).
- Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the remaining beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), potatoes, carrots, salt, pepper, dried thyme, and bay leaves.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the meat is tender.
Step 4: Add Frozen Vegetables
- Add the frozen peas and corn to the pot. If using any other frozen or quick-cooking vegetables, add them at this stage.
- Continue to simmer the stew for another 15-20 minutes, or until all the vegetables are cooked through.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
- Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove the bay leaves before serving.
- Serve hot, with crusty bread on the side for dipping.
Tips:
- Mulligan Stew is incredibly versatile. Feel free to use any meats or vegetables you have on hand. The idea is to make a nourishing meal out of available ingredients.
- For a thicker stew, you can mix 2 tablespoons of flour or cornstarch with a little cold water to form a slurry. Stir this into the stew and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes until thickened.
- This stew tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together.
Mulligan Stew embodies the spirit of resourcefulness and community. It’s a warm, comforting meal that brings people together, perfect for a cozy night in or to share with friends and family.