Microwave Beef Stew

Let me begin by saying that this is not a quick recipe.  It is cooked in the microwave, but on a lower power.  I know it seems odd to use a microwave for lengthy cooking, but this beef stew is delicious and worth it!  It's very easy, you just layer the ingredients in the casserole, pour the liquid mixture over the top, pop it in the microwave and let it cook.  No checking, no peeking!  Do be sure you have a large covered casserole before undertaking this recipe.

I got this recipe from my mother, who received it when she took a class after purchasing her new microwave well over 15 years ago.  A local appliance store offered a class with the purchase of a new microwave.  I don't know that I've known of any stores doing that then or since that time.  Between mom and I we have made this stew dozens of times. 

The stew is perfect for chilly winter evenings,  Pair it with a nice salad and some crusty bread for a hearty meal.

Microwave Beef Stew

Ingredients:

2 pounds round steak cut into bite sized cubes
2 cups 1" sliced carrots
3 cups sliced onions (cut the onion in half first)
1 cup sliced celery
4 cups cubed potatoes
1 can tomato soup
1/2 soup can of water
1 Tablespoon sugar
1 Tablespoon salt (yes a full tablespoon, this is not a typo)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 Tablespoons Tapioca
2 teaspoons Kitchen Bouquet

Directions:

Cut the round steak into bite sized cubes.  If you are using a frozen piece of meat, don't thaw it all the way, it will be easier to cut.  

In a 4 quart microvewable casserole, microwave the round steak cubes on high 8-9 minutes, stirring once or twice until the pink color is gone.

Layer the meat with carrots, onion, celery and potatoes.

In a 2 cup glass measure, combine the tomato soup, water, sugar, salt, pepper and tapioca.  

Stir to blend; pour over the vegetables.  It won't look very good, but go with it.

Cover the casserole.  Microwave on Medium-Low power for 90 minutes.

Do NOT lift the lid; Do NOT stir.  NO peeking, just be patient and wait!

When the time is up, check that the potatoes and carrots are done.  If they are still a little crunchy, cook a bit longer.

The mixture will look less than appetizing.  Here's where the Kitchen Bouquet comes in! 

Add the 2 teaspoons of Kitchen Bouquet to the mixture and stir thoroughly to incorporate.  This will make it a rich, inviting, mouthwatering brown.

Dish up the stew and serve.  I should have cleaned up the bowl for the photo, but it smelled and looked so good, I just wanted to get the final photos and dig in!  I'll try to do better next time!

.....and that's What's Cooking at Cathy's ~ Enjoy!