Prepare delicious beef stew packs ahead of time for easy camping meals. These hearty packs are perfect for adventurers seeking a convenient and satisfying meal in the great outdoors.
Author:Jacob Carmichael
Prep Time:30 minutes
Cook Time:2 hours
Total Time:2 hours 30 minutes
Yield:6-8 servings
Category:Main Course
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 carrots, peeled and chopped
3 celery stalks, chopped
4 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine (optional)
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening, if needed)
1/4 cup water (for thickening, if needed)
Instructions
Season beef cubes with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown beef in batches, then set aside.
Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
Return beef to the pot. Add beef broth, red wine (if using), thyme, and rosemary.
Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat, cover, and cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until beef is tender.
If a thicker stew is desired, whisk together flour and water to create a slurry. Stir into the stew and cook for a few more minutes until thickened.
Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Divide the stew into individual freezer-safe portions or bags.
Allow to cool completely before freezing.
To reheat for camping, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then heat thoroughly in a pot over a campfire or camp stove.
Notes
For best results, use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
You can add other vegetables like potatoes or peas to the stew before freezing.
Ensure the stew is completely cooled before packaging to prevent ice crystals.
When camping, be sure to store frozen packs in a cooler with ice packs to keep them cold until ready to heat.
Nutrition
Serving Size:1 serving
Calories:Approx. 400-500 kcal (varies based on ingredients)