RECIPESPRODUCTSPANTRYSHOPPING
MAIN DISHES
SOUPS

Beef Stew Meat

Beef stew meat consists of small chunks of beef, typically cut from tougher, leaner cuts such as chuck or round, which require a slow, moist heat cooking method for tenderization. Rich in protein, iron, and vitamins, beef stew meat is a popular choice for stews, casseroles, and slow-cooked dishes that offer deep, robust flavors and a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture when cooked properly. To prepare beef stew meat, gently brown the meat in oil or fat before adding liquid and simmering slowly for a few hours. This process, known as braising, allows the collagen and muscle fibers to break down, resulting in a rich, flavorful dish that is highly versatile and easy to pair with various vegetables or starches.
#9
IN RED MEAT
128
CAL / 100G
$0.44
AVG / OZ
beef stew meat
1%
CARBS
17%
FAT
82%
PROTEIN
Beef Stew Meat FAQ
Beef stew meat can be a little tricky to work with, especially for those who are new to using tougher cuts of beef in their cooking. The main issue people have is knowing how to prepare it so it becomes tender rather than tough. The secret is all in the method of cooking - slow and low is the key to beautiful, tender beef stew meat. This means slow cooking it at a low temperature, in plenty of liquid. By doing this, the collagen in the meat is broken down, and it becomes incredibly tender. Another pitfall people often stumble into is not seasoning their stew meat enough. Beef stew meat really benefits from a good dose of salt and pepper, a hearty mix of herbs, and even a splash of wine or beer for added depth of flavor. Apart from seasoning and cooking time, the cut of the meat itself also plays a crucial role in the final outcome. Although beef stew meat is generally lean, choosing a pack with a small amount of fat can help to keep the meat moist during the cooking process. As a little known tip, always try to brown your beef before you start the stew process. This not only seals in the juices but also caramelizes the sugars in the meat providing a much greater depth of flavor.
Can I add vegetables to my beef stew?
Why did my beef stew meat turn out dry?
Do I need to use oil or fat to cook beef stew meat?
Why is my beef stew meat tough?
Should I brown beef before stewing?
How can I add flavor to my beef stew?
Can I use any cut of beef for stewing?
Why does my beef stew lack depth in flavor?
How long should I cook beef stew meat to make it tender?
Can I use a pressure cooker to prepare the beef stew?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does beef stew meat expire?
When kept in the refrigerator, fresh beef stew meat should ideally be used within 2-3 days of purchase to ensure maximum freshness and best quality. If it's been vacuum-packed and the package is unopened, it could last up to 2 weeks. If you've taken advantage of a sale and have frozen the meat, you're in luck - it can last between 6-12 months in the freezer. However, remember to use it within 3-4 days once it's been thawed in the fridge.
How do you tell if beef stew meat is bad?
Spoiled meat tends to give clear signals that it's time to toss it. First, take a whiff - if it smells sour, off-putting or has a faintly sweet, sickly scent, it might be bad. Next, look at the color. If your beef stew meat has turned gray or brown, this could indicate spoilage. Fresh beef is a bright red. Finally, if the surface feels slimy or sticky, or if you can see mold growing, it's best to discard it immediately to avoid food poisoning.
Tips for storing beef stew meat to extend shelf life
• Always store beef stew meat in the coldest part of your refrigerator, ideally at a temperature of below 40°F. • If you won't be using the meat within a few days of purchase, consider freezing it. You can divide it into meal-sized portions and store each portion in a separate freezer bag to avoid waste. • If you have frozen the beef stew meat, thaw it safely by transferring it to the fridge, never leave it on the counter to defrost as this can invite bacteria growth. • Use airtight containers or vacuum-sealed packages to store your meat. This reduces exposure to air, thereby slowing down the growth of bacteria and extending the shelf life of the meat.
EXPIRES WITHIN
6 - 21
DAYS
Health Info
Macros
0g
CARBS
3g
FAT
18g
PROTEIN
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
HIGH CALCIUM
KETO
PALEO
WHOLE 30
MEDITERRANEAN
LOW CARB
LACTOSE FREE
GLUTEN FREE
Recipes with what you have
Download Cooklist
Get the app to track inventory, save recipes, build meal plans and order groceries from local stores.
Scan to download
QR Code