Cowboy Stew

### **Instructions for Making Cowboy Stew**

#### **Step 1: Brown the Meat**
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the **ground beef** and **smoked sausage** to the pot. Brown the meat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. This will help develop a rich, savory base for the stew. Once browned, drain any excess fat, and set the meat aside.

#### **Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables**
In the same pot, add the **chopped onion** and **minced garlic**. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent. This step helps to bring out the natural sweetness of the onions and infuses the stew with flavor.

#### **Step 3: Add the Liquids and Seasonings**
Return the cooked meat to the pot. Add the **beef broth**, **diced tomatoes**, and seasonings, including **smoked paprika**, **chili powder**, **ground cumin**, **black pepper**, and a pinch of **salt**. Stir everything together to combine, making sure the seasonings are evenly distributed.

#### **Step 4: Add the Beans and Potatoes**
Next, add the **kidney beans**, **black beans**, and **corn** to the pot. If you’re using potatoes, toss them in as well. Stir the mixture again, and bring it to a simmer over medium heat.

#### **Step 5: Simmer the Stew**
Once everything is well combined, reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for about **30-40 minutes**, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together. Be sure to stir occasionally, and check the seasoning. If needed, add a bit more salt or pepper to taste.

#### **Step 6: Serve and Enjoy**
Once the stew is ready, ladle it into bowls and garnish with **fresh parsley** if desired. Serve with cornbread, crusty bread, or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.

### **Why This Cowboy Stew is a Must-Try**

1. **Comfort in a Bowl**: There’s nothing better than a warm, hearty bowl of stew to end your day. The combination of tender beef, smoky sausage, creamy beans, and the sweetness of corn makes for a flavor-packed dish that’s satisfying and comforting.
2. **Packed with Nutrients**: With a hearty mix of protein, vegetables, and fiber-rich beans, this stew provides a well-rounded, nutritious meal.
3. **Perfect for Meal Prep**: This stew stores well in the fridge for several days, and the flavors get even better as it sits. It’s great for lunch leftovers or making ahead of time for a busy week.
4. **Customizable**: Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to bulk up the stew or change the flavor profile. You can also adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or hot sauce if you prefer a bit of heat.

### **Tips for Making the Best Cowboy Stew**

– **Use a Good Sausage**: The smoked sausage is a key ingredient in this stew, so choose one that you enjoy. Kielbasa, Andouille, or even chorizo can give the stew a unique flavor.
– **Add Extra Vegetables**: Cowboy stew is very flexible, and you can easily add in more vegetables like bell peppers, celery, or even a handful of spinach for extra nutrients.
– **Make it Spicy**: If you like a little kick, add some **jalapeños**, **hot sauce**, or **cayenne pepper** to the stew for an added burst of heat.
– **Thicken the Stew**: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash a few of the potatoes in the pot with a spoon to create a creamy texture. Alternatively, you can add a bit of flour or cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the broth.
– **Serve with a Side**: Pair this stew with cornbread, crackers, or a thick slice of bread to soak up the delicious broth. A simple side salad also works well to balance the richness of the stew.

### **Conclusion**

**Cowboy Stew** is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, flavorful, and so easy to make. With a blend of savory meats, beans, vegetables, and spices, it’s a meal that satisfies all the senses and is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this stew is a winner. It’s customizable, filling, and packed with all the flavors you crave. So grab your pot, gather the ingredients, and enjoy a bowl of this hearty, flavorful Cowboy Stew today!