Waldorf Astoria Stew in the Crock Pot

Waldorf Astoria Stew in the Crock Pot Recipe - A Hearty American Dish

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 5 hours | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Waldorf Astoria Stew is a classic comfort food dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This hearty stew is packed with tender beef, potatoes, carrots, celery, and onions, all simmered together in a flavorful tomato-based broth. The best part? This recipe can be easily made in a crock pot, making it a convenient and delicious meal option for busy weeknights.

History

The Waldorf Astoria Stew is said to have originated at the famous Waldorf Astoria hotel in New York City. This iconic dish has been a favorite among guests for decades, thanks to its rich and satisfying flavors. The stew is a perfect example of classic American comfort food, with its hearty ingredients and savory broth.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) beef sirloin, cut up
2 cups potatoes, cut in large pieces
2 cups carrots, cut in large pieces
2 cups celery, cut in large pieces
1 bag of frozen small onions
1 slice of white bread, cut up
1 can of whole tomatoes with juice
2 tbsp dry minced onion
3 tbsp quick-cooking tapioca
1 tbsp sugar
1 can of tomato soup
1 tsp salt
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper

How to prepare

Place all ingredients in a large crock pot, then cover and cook on the low setting for 5 hours.
Avoid stirring until ready to serve.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute the beef with mushrooms or tofu.
Add in additional vegetables such as peas, corn, or green beans for extra color and flavor.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile of the stew.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For best results, sear the beef before adding it to the crock pot. This will help lock in the flavor and juices of the meat.

- Be sure to cut the vegetables into large pieces to ensure they hold up well during the long cooking process.

- Avoid stirring the stew too much while it is cooking, as this can cause the vegetables to become mushy.

- Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences by adding in additional herbs or spices.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Waldorf Astoria Stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a side of crusty bread for dipping. This stew pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

The slow cooking process in the crock pot allows the flavors of the stew to meld together beautifully, resulting in a rich and savory dish. This method also ensures that the beef becomes tender and juicy, making it a perfect comfort food option.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have tapioca, you can substitute with cornstarch or flour to thicken the stew.

- Feel free to use any type of meat or protein of your choice, such as chicken or pork.

Make Ahead Tips

This stew can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Waldorf Astoria Stew in individual bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a pop of color. You can also serve the stew in a bread bowl for a fun and creative presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This hearty stew pairs well with a glass of red wine, such as a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving with a glass of sparkling water with a splash of lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

320

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 32g

- Dietary Fiber: 4g

- Sugars: 8g

Fats

- Total Fat: 12g

- Saturated Fat: 4g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 28g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 120%

- Vitamin C: 30%

- Calcium: 8%

- Iron: 20%

Alergens

Contains: Wheat

Summary

This Waldorf Astoria Stew is a well-balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a satisfying and nutritious option for a hearty dinner.

Summary

Waldorf Astoria Stew is a classic comfort food dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This hearty stew is packed with tender beef, potatoes, carrots, celery, and onions, all simmered together in a flavorful tomato-based broth. With its rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, this stew is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw the recipe for Waldorf Astoria Stew in the Crock Pot, I was filled with excitement. It was a chilly autumn day, and I was browsing through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I flipped through the pages, a worn and stained piece of paper fell out, revealing the handwritten recipe for this famous stew.

I had heard of the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City, known for its luxurious accommodations and fine dining. The thought of being able to recreate one of their signature dishes in my own kitchen was thrilling. The recipe called for simple ingredients like beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions, but it also included a few unexpected additions like red wine and Worcestershire sauce.

I remembered the first time I had ever tasted this stew. It was at a dinner party hosted by a dear friend who had traveled to New York and stayed at the Waldorf Astoria. She had raved about the stew, describing it as rich and flavorful with a depth of flavor that was unlike anything she had ever tasted. I had taken one bite and instantly fallen in love with the dish.

As I read through the recipe, memories of that dinner party came flooding back. The laughter, the chatter, the clinking of glasses – it was a time of joy and camaraderie that I would always cherish. I knew that I had to try making this stew myself, to recreate that magical moment in my own home.

I set to work gathering the ingredients, carefully chopping the vegetables and browning the beef. The aroma of onions and garlic sizzling in the pan filled the kitchen, making my stomach rumble with anticipation. I added the red wine and Worcestershire sauce, watching as the liquid bubbled and reduced, creating a rich and velvety sauce.

As I transferred the stew to the Crock Pot, I couldn't help but smile at the thought of the delicious meal that would be waiting for me at the end of the day. The slow cooking process would allow the flavors to meld together, creating a dish that was complex and comforting at the same time.

Hours passed, and the stew simmered away, filling the house with its tantalizing scent. Finally, it was time to serve. I ladled the stew into bowls, garnishing it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. The first bite was like a warm hug from an old friend – familiar and comforting, yet exciting and new.

As I savored each mouthful, I thought about the journey that had brought me to this moment. The countless recipes I had tried, the lessons I had learned, the memories I had created – they all culminated in this simple bowl of stew. It was a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to create moments of joy and connection that would last a lifetime.

And so, as I sat at the table, surrounded by loved ones, enjoying a meal that had traveled from the Waldorf Astoria Hotel to my humble kitchen, I felt grateful. Grateful for the recipe that had sparked my curiosity, grateful for the memories that had inspired me, and grateful for the simple joy of sharing a delicious meal with the ones I loved.

In that moment, I knew that this recipe would become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire, a reminder of the magic that can be found in a simple bowl of stew. And as I took another bite, savoring the flavors that danced on my tongue, I knew that I would carry this memory with me always.