Poor Man’s Stew is a simple, budget-friendly one-pot meal made with inexpensive ingredients such as ground beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
500 g (1 lb) ground beef (or any affordable minced meat)
4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
2 carrots, sliced
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
1 can (400 g / 14 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups (1 liter) beef or vegetable broth
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
1 tablespoon cooking oil
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Meat
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
5. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
1. Add the potatoes and carrots.
2. Stir well to combine with the meat mixture.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Seasonings
1. Pour in the broth.
2. Add the diced tomatoes.
3. Stir in the salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
Step 4: Simmer
1. Bring the stew to a gentle boil.
2. Reduce heat to low.
3. Cover and simmer for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Cook until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
Step 5: Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot with bread, rice, or on its own.
Extra Budget Version
If meat is expensive, reduce the meat to 250 g and add:
1 cup lentils, or
1 can of beans
This makes the stew more filling and affordable while adding protein and fiber.
Storage
Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
The flavor often improves the next day.
Approximate Cost-Saving Tip
- Potatoes, onions, carrots, lentils, and beans are usually among the cheapest ingredients per serving, making this stew a popular low-cost family meal.