Slow Cooker Campfire Stew.
- Rachel-Jayne's Allotment
- Dec 20, 2024
- 3 min read
Discover an Easy Recipe for Slow Cooker Campfire Stew that Will Impress Your Family
Looking for a dish that warms the heart and brings the family together? This Slow Cooker Campfire Stew is exactly what you need! This easy recipe blends tender gammon with hearty vegetables, aromatic herbs, and spices, evoking that cozy feeling of a campfire gathering. Ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends, it demands minimal action from you while delivering a burst of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we jump into cooking, let’s gather the ingredients make this delightful stew.
600g gammon (about 1.3 pounds)
1 tbsp oil
2 onions, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
1 celery stick, chopped
2 peppers, chopped (red or yellow for sweetness)
4 garlic cloves, crushed
1 tbsp tomato puree
2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp chili powder
2 x 400g tins chopped tomatoes (14 ounces each)
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 bay leaves
2 x 400g haricot beans, drained and rinsed (14 ounces each)
With these ingredients ready, you’re on your way to creating an unforgettable meal!
Preparation Steps
Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Chop the onions, carrots, celery, and peppers, then toss them into the hot oil. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant. Don’t forget to add the crushed garlic in the last minute to really boost the flavor.
Next, stir in the tomato puree, smoked paprika, and chili powder, ensuring the vegetables are well coated. This step lays a rich and savory foundation for your Slow Cooker Campfire Stew.
Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Once the aromatics are sautéed, transfer them to your slow cooker.
Cut the gammon into cubes and add it to the pot along with the chopped tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, and haricot beans. This medley of flavors is sure to please everyone at the table.
The Magic of Cooking Low and Slow
Now comes the highlight—cooking!
Set your slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and the gammon becomes tender. One of the best aspects of using a slow cooker is that you can "set it and forget it," opening up your day for other activities.
Serving Suggestions
When the cooking time is up, get ready to dig in!
Serve the stew warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a vibrant touch. This dish shines when paired with crusty bread, perfect for soaking up that rich broth.
If you're feeling a bit more gourmet, add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor.
Variations to Customize Your Stew
Maximize your stew's versatility by making a few tweaks.
You can substitute gammon with chicken or beef based on your family’s preference. Additionally, swap in vegetables like sweet potatoes, green beans, or spinach. The variations are endless!
For a vegetarian option, just leave out the gammon and replace it with more beans or lentils. Adjust spices to match your taste—perhaps more chili powder for heat or extra herbs for fragrance.
Nutritional Benefits
This Slow Cooker Campfire Stew is not just delicious; it's also packed with nutrients.
With a variety of vegetables, you’re getting essential vitamins and minerals. The gammon adds protein, while the haricot beans contribute fiber, making this dish both wholesome and filling. In fact, a serving provides about 15g of protein and 10g of fiber.
Tips for Success
For a perfect stew every time, keep these tips in mind:
Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh, quality ingredients elevate the taste of your stew.
Layer the Flavors: Sautéing the vegetables is key to enhance their flavors.
Taste and Adjust: Make sure to check the seasoning towards the end of cooking and adjust if needed.
Storage: Leftovers last up to 3 days in an airtight container in the fridge, making this an ideal meal prep dish!
Savor the Experience
This easy Slow Cooker Campfire Stew is a comforting recipe that will keep your family coming back for more.
With its delicious flavors and straightforward preparation, it’s bound to become a staple in your household. Try this recipe and see how it not only satisfies your taste buds but also warms the hearts of your loved ones. Grab your slow cooker and get ready for a delightful meal that feels like a cozy night by the campfire, no matter where you are!
Happy cooking!
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