I start by using puréed vegetables instead of flour or cornstarch for a healthy, thickened broth.
We use fewer potatoes than a standard stew. We then substitute cauliflower for the rest to lower carbs while keeping it hearty.
Lean beef provides high protein with the right amount of healthy fats.
A blend of seasonings, including cayenne and red pepper flakes, adds a spicy kick. It also makes the stew burst with flavor.
Fiber-rich vegetables provide essential nutrients while keeping sugar low.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving - 8 Servings Total)

Ingredients

• Stewing beef, 2 lbs, cut into cubes
• Olive oil, 2 tbsp
• Onion, 1 large, chopped
• Garlic, 2 cloves, minced
• Beef broth, 4 cups
• Tomato paste, 2 tbsp
• Salt, 1 tsp (adjust to taste)
• Black pepper, 1 tsp
• Dried rosemary, 1 tsp (or 1 sprig fresh rosemary)
• Cayenne pepper, ½ tsp
• Red pepper flakes, ½ tsp
• Potatoes, 2 medium, peeled and cubed (reduced by 3/5 from traditional recipes)
• Cauliflower florets, 1 ½ cups, chopped (to replace reduced potatoes)
• Carrots, 2 medium, chopped (reduced to lower sugar content)
• Peas, ½ cup (reduced to lower sugar content)
• Celery, 3 ribs, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add half of the beef cubes, ensuring they are spread out evenly in a single layer. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside. Repeat with the remaining beef, adding the second tablespoon of olive oil if needed.

Step 2: To sauté the aromatics, reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are translucent and release their fragrance.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base Stir in the tomato paste, mixing well to coat the onions and garlic. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavors. Pour in the beef broth, stirring to deglaze the pot and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.

Step 4: Add Seasonings and Simmer Add the salt, black pepper, rosemary, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes. Return the seared beef to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes to tenderize the beef.

Step 5: Add Vegetables After 45 minutes, add the potatoes, cauliflower, carrots, peas, and celery to the pot. Stir well, cover again, and let simmer for another 30 minutes or until the vegetables become fork-tender.

Step 6: Thicken the Stew Naturally Once the vegetables are soft. Carefully remove one cup of the cooked vegetables from the stew. Be sure to select a mix of cauliflower, potatoes, and carrots for optimal flavor and texture. Include a small amount of the broth with the vegetables to aid in blending. Blend until smooth, then return the puree to the stew and stir well. This will thicken the broth naturally while adding extra nutrients and fiber.

Step 7: Final Simmer and Serve Let the stew simmer uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes. This is to allow the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot and enjoy!

Best Side Dishes for Beef Stew: Low-Carb & Nutritious Options

Pairing your beef stew with the right side dishes can elevate the meal. This is especially true when you're aiming for low-carb and nutritious options. Here are some excellent choices to complement your hearty stew:

1. Keto Flour Biscuits

A soft, buttery biscuit made is a fantastic substitute for traditional bread. These biscuits are perfect for dipping into the rich, thick stew broth. Scotty's is my brand of choice.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts provide extra fiber and nutrients and complement the stew's robust flavors. Roast them with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt, and pepper for a crispy, caramelized side dish.

3. Zucchini Noodles ("Zoodles")

Love the idea of soaking up the stew's delicious sauce but want to avoid bread? Zucchini noodles are an excellent alternative. Simply sauté them lightly and serve alongside your bowl of stew. Zoodles are easy to make at home, make them an affordable low carb meal for any occasion.

4. Crispy Cauliflower Bites

Roasting cauliflower florets brings out their natural sweetness and creates a satisfying crispness. A coating of sea salt adds a savory dimension. The resulting texture is delightfully crunchy, making it a perfect complement to the rich, hearty low carb beef stew recipe. Keto Naturals makes a delicious Crispy Cauli Bite.

5. Garlic Butter Mushrooms

Mushrooms sautéed in garlic and butter add a depth of flavor and a satisfying texture without adding extra carbs.

6. Miracle Rice

Enjoy guilt-free rice dishes with Miracle Rice, a 10-calorie, low-carb, grain-free alternative. Made from the konjac plant, it's perfect for keto, vegan, and gluten-free diets. This ancient recipe offers a healthy base for stew, stir-fries and more. Get Miracle Rice at Amazon now.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips for Beef Stew

How to Store Beef Stew

• Refrigeration:
  Let the stew cool completely before storing.
  Transfer it to an airtight container.
  Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing:
  Allow the stew to cool completely.
  Use freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags.
  Divide into individual portions for easy reheating.
  Seal tightly to prevent freezer burn.
  Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  To thaw, transfer frozen stew to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight.

How to Reheat Beef Stew

• Stovetop:
  Pour the stew into a pot.
  Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
  Cook until heated through.
• Microwave:
  Place a single serving in a microwave-safe bowl.
  Heat for 30 seconds, then stir.
  Continue heating in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• Frequently Asked Questions
• 1. Can I make this beef stew in a slow cooker?
• Yes! Brown the beef as instructed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
• 2. What are the best cuts of beef for stew?
• Tougher cuts like chuck roast, brisket, or round roast work best because they become tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.
• 3. Can I make this stew spicier?
• Absolutely! Increase the cayenne pepper to 1 tsp or add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• 4. Is this beef stew keto-friendly?
• With 15g total carbs and 4g fiber, it’s relatively low in net carbs. This makes it suitable for a moderate keto diet. If you need it even lower in carbs, reduce the potatoes, carrots, and peas further.

Final Thoughts

This healthy low carb beef stew recipe is packed with protein, vegetables, and bold flavors. All while staying low in carbohydrates and sugars. By using pureed vegetables to thicken the broth, this stew retains the richness of classic beef stew. Additionally, reducing starchy ingredients helps keep it light while maintaining all the flavor. It delivers all the familiar flavors without unnecessary additives. The right amount of spice is incorporated to enhance the flavor without relying on unnecessary additives. Enjoy this hearty, nutrient-dense stew on its own. Alternatively, pair it with a low-carb side dish for the ultimate comfort meal. This recipe works for many situations. You can make it ahead of time. It's good for family meals. It's also great when you want a warm, comforting meal on a cold night. It delivers the perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and satisfaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this beef stew in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef as instructed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

2. What are the best cuts of beef for stew?
Tougher cuts like chuck roast, brisket, or round roast work best because they become tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.

3. Can I make this stew spicier?
Absolutely! Increase the cayenne pepper to 1 tsp or add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

4. Is this beef stew keto-friendly?
With 15g total carbs and 4g fiber, it’s relatively low in net carbs. This makes it suitable for a moderate keto diet. If you need it even lower in carbs, reduce the potatoes, carrots, and peas further.