Meal Prep Monday: Hearty Cast Iron Dutch Oven Stew

Welcome to another Meal Prep Monday at WLD MTN! As the weather cools and the hunting season is here, there's nothing quite like a hearty stew to refuel after a day in the outdoors. Today, we're sharing a classic, easy-to-make Cast Iron Dutch Oven Stew that's perfect for meal prep and will keep you warm and satisfied.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 cups beef broth

• 2 medium carrots, sliced

• 2 potatoes, cubed

• 1 cup frozen peas

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 2 bay leaves

Instructions:

Prep the Meat: In a large bowl, toss the meat cubes with flour to coat evenly. This helps in thickening the stew later on.

Brown the Meat: Heat olive oil in your cast iron Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the meat in batches and brown on all sides. Remove the meat and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables: In the same Dutch oven, add the onions and garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent.

Combine Ingredients: Return the browned beef to the pot. Add beef broth, ensuring it covers the meat and vegetables. Stir in the carrots, potatoes, salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaves.

Slow Cook: Bring the stew to a simmer. Then reduce the heat, cover, and let it cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender.

Add Final Touches: In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas. Remove the bay leaves before serving.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve your stew warm. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad.

Meal Prep Tips:

Store Properly: This stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s perfect for reheating on busy nights.

Freeze for Later: For longer storage, freeze the stew in airtight containers. It keeps well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Batch Cooking: Double the recipe if you have a large Dutch oven. This stew is excellent for batch cooking and meal prep for the week.

This Cast Iron Dutch Oven Stew is not only delicious but also a great way to get a nutritious, comforting meal with minimal effort. Its simplicity and heartiness make it a favorite for meal preppers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Enjoy this stew after a long day in the backcountry, or anytime you crave a taste of home.

Stay tuned for more Meal Prep Monday recipes at WLD MTN, where we bring you easy, delicious, and nutritious meal ideas perfect for your active lifestyle!