Freezable Beef Stew: A Nutrient-Dense, Gut-Healing Meal for Babies and Families

When it comes to feeding your baby and family wholesome, nutrient-packed meals, this freezable beef stew ticks all the boxes. Adapted from Nourished Beginnings Baby Food by Renee Kohley (amazon affiliate link), this recipe is simple to prepare, versatile, and perfect for busy families looking to serve nutritious meals even on the most hectic days.

Whether you’re diving into baby-led weaning or prefer spoon-feeding, this stew offers a variety of textures and flavors that can be customized for everyone at the table—even your pups!

Why This Beef Stew is Amazing

For Babies:

• Iron-Rich: Grass-fed chuck roast provides bioavailable iron, essential for brain development and energy.

• Gentle Digestion: Gut-friendly ingredients like carrots and celery soothe and nourish little tummies.

• Easy Texture: Perfect for self-feeding or pureeing for smaller babies.

For the Family:

• Balanced Nutrition: A hearty mix of protein, fiber, and vitamins supports overall health.

• Customizable: Seasonal veggies and baby-safe herbs can be added for variety.

• Freezer-Friendly: Makes meal prep a breeze with portions ready to reheat.

What’s Inside This Wholesome Stew

Core Ingredients:

• 1-2 Medium Onions: Add antioxidants and immune-boosting properties (optional - omit if sharing with dogs).

• 6 Organic Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene for vision and immune health.

• 1 Bunch of Celery: Offers hydration and digestive support.

• 2–3 lbs Grass-Fed Chuck Roast: A nutrient-dense protein packed with iron and essential amino acids.

• 4 Cloves of Pressed Garlic: Boosts immunity and enhances flavor.

Liquid Options:

• Water, homemade meat stock, or organic low-sodium broth.

Optional Additions for Extra Nutrition:

• Baby-Safe Herbs: Try thyme, rosemary, or a pinch of turmeric for added flavor and anti-inflammatory benefits.

• Healthy Fats: Stir in butter, ghee, or bone marrow for a calorie and nutrient boost.

How to Make Freezable Beef Stew

This recipe can be adapted to suit your schedule, whether you prefer pressure cooking or slow cooking:

Instructions:

1. Optional Step for Extra Flavor: Sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in a bit of butter or ghee before cooking.

2. Add Ingredients: Place the chuck roast above veggies, and add liquid (enough to fill halfway up the roast) in your Instant Pot or slow cooker.

3. Cooking Options:

   • Pressure Cooking: Cook on high pressure for 1 hour.

   • Slow Cooking: Cook on low for 6–8 hours until the beef is tender and falls apart easily.

4. Cool and Portion: Let the stew cool slightly before shredding the beef. Portion into containers for serving or freezing.

Serving Ideas for Babies and the Family

This stew is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways to suit everyone at the table:

For Babies:

• Spoon-Feeding: Strain the broth and feed the flavorful liquid with a spoon.

• Baby-Led Weaning: Offer soft-cooked carrots, celery, and shredded beef as finger foods.

• Pureed: Blend the stew for a smooth consistency and add a healthy fat like ghee or bone marrow for extra nourishment.

For the Family:

• Serve with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or butter slathered sourdough bread.

• Reheat as a hearty soup on colder days.

For Dogs (Optional):

• Skip the onions and share this stew with your pups as a gut-healthy meal.

Storage Tips

Refrigerator:

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer:

Portion the stew into freezer-safe containers (I use mason jars - make sure you leave at least an inch between the soup and top of container if you do this) and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove or microwave. You may need to place out at room temp a few hours before serving depending on how much you put in your container.

Why This Recipe is Great

1. Perfect for Baby and Family Meals

This stew is designed to be enjoyed by everyone, from babies to adults. It’s rich in nutrients, easy to digest, and simple to customize.

2. Freezes Beautifully

Make a big batch and store portions for quick, wholesome meals on busy days.

3. Balanced Nutrition

Packed with high-quality protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, this stew provides everything growing bodies need to thrive.

FAQs About Freezeable Beef Stew

1. Can I substitute other meats?

Yes! You can use chicken thighs, turkey, or even lamb for variety.

2. How much should I serve my baby?

Start with small amounts (about 1–2 tablespoons) and gradually increase as they get used to the flavors and textures. You can PUREE this for younger babies or baby-led wean with older ones. I tend to strain out some of the liquid and spoon feed my 12-month old the broth and let her pick on shredded beef and veggies as she pleases.

3. Can I add seasoning?

Avoid adding salt for babies under one year old. Instead, use baby-safe herbs like rosemary or thyme for flavor.

4. How do I make this stew dog-friendly?

Omit onions, which can be toxic to dogs. Use plain meat and veggies for a safe and nutritious pup-friendly version.

5. Can I make this without an Instant Pot?

Yes! Use a slow cooker or simmer it on the stovetop for 6–8 hours until the beef is tender.

This freezeable beef stew is a nutrient-dense, gut-healing meal perfect for babies, families, and even pets. It’s easy to prepare, loaded with wholesome ingredients, and versatile enough to suit everyone at the table.

What’s your go-to meal for feeding your baby and family? Share your favorite recipes or variations in the comments below!

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