Hearty & Easy Mulligan Stew: Your Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
An enduring classic that continues to warm hearts and homes! This incredibly hearty and wonderfully easy recipe for Mulligan Stew brings together succulent chunks of beef, tender carrots, and wholesome potatoes, all lovingly simmered in a rich, savory tomato soup broth. Crafted as a convenient stovetop meal, it’s the quintessential choice for a comforting family dinner any night of the week.
This particular stew recipe holds a special place in our family history, proudly bearing my Mother-in-Law’s name in our church cookbook. Among all the delightful stew recipes out there, this one is undeniably her “claim to fame.” Its consistent deliciousness and simple preparation have made it a beloved staple for generations.
I’ve always believed that church cookbooks are goldmines for truly exceptional recipes. After all, who would dare to share a terrible recipe with their entire community, with their name prominently attached? Absolutely no one! There’s an inherent trust in recipes passed down through community pages, ensuring they’re tried, true, and universally adored.
If you’re new to making stew or simply looking for a foolproof recipe, this Mulligan Stew is the perfect place to start. It’s incredibly simple to follow, yielding delicious results whether you prepare it in a slow cooker (crock pot) or on your stovetop. This is the ultimate comfort food for our family, often served simply with warm, crusty bread and a generous spread of butter – a meal that evokes pure contentment.
My husband especially cherishes this recipe. He often requests it when the snow is falling and the wind is blowing outside, creating the perfect cozy atmosphere. However, its appeal isn’t limited to cold weather; we happily enjoy this hearty stew year-round, proving that comfort food knows no season!
The Enduring Appeal of Mulligan Stew
You truly can’t go wrong with classic, wholesome ingredients like tender beef, sweet carrots, and earthy potatoes. These are true stew staples, each contributing essential flavor, satisfying texture, and vibrant color to create a dish that is both hearty and profoundly nourishing. The magic truly happens when these core ingredients are gently simmered with aromatic onions, a can of rich tomato soup, and a touch of browning sauce. This combination transforms simple components into a deeply savory, wholesome meal that is guaranteed to be loved by everyone at your table.
What Exactly is Mulligan Stew? A Brief History
This Mulligan stew recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a true classic with a fascinating history. Thought to have originated in the early 1900s, it’s often associated with American hobos and migrant workers during times when food was scarce. Faced with limited resources, these resourceful individuals would create this “hobo stew” using whatever meat, vegetables, or scraps they could gather – a true testament to making something delicious out of very little. The name “Mulligan” is said to be derived from a common Irish surname, perhaps linking it to a simplified version of traditional Irish beef stews.
While our access to food is thankfully much easier today, the core principle of Mulligan Stew remains incredibly relevant. As food prices continue to fluctuate, this recipe offers a fantastic, budget-friendly option, allowing you the flexibility to use whatever ingredients you have on hand or can easily source. It’s a versatile and adaptable meal that embraces the spirit of culinary improvisation, making it perfect for a “clean out the fridge” dinner.
If you find yourself loving this classic beef stew recipe, you’ll certainly enjoy exploring other comforting and hearty options. Consider trying our Beef and Barley Stew for another wholesome meal, our rich Ground Beef Ragout for a pasta-friendly option, or the ever-popular Beef and Noodles for a satisfying twist.
Mulligan Beef Stew: Versatility at its Best
The beauty of this Mulligan beef stew lies in its incredible simplicity and adaptability. It’s effortlessly prepared with your choice of meat and a variety of fresh or frozen vegetables, making it highly versatile and easily customizable to suit your family’s preferences or what’s available in your pantry. As mentioned, it’s truly a fantastic ‘clean out the fridge’ kind of stew, allowing you to utilize any leftover ingredients or forgotten vegetables at the end of the week. To elevate this meal to perfection, serve your warm, savory stew alongside homemade Buttermilk Biscuits or a slice of sweet and moist Honey Cornbread. These pairings create an unforgettable, complete, and utterly satisfying dining experience.
Essential Ingredients for this Easy Mulligan Stew Recipe
For a comprehensive list of all ingredients, precise measurements, and step-by-step instructions, please scroll down to the very bottom of this post where you’ll find the full, printable recipe card.
- Beef Stew Meat – The star of the show! Choose a cut that’s ideal for slow simmering, such as chuck roast, beef round, or pre-cut stew meat. These cuts become incredibly tender and flavorful over time.
- Oil – Essential for browning the beef and building the flavor foundation. I prefer using extra virgin olive oil for its delicate flavor, but any high-heat cooking oil, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or even avocado oil, will work beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper – Basic seasonings are crucial. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper generously to taste, enhancing the natural flavors of the beef and vegetables. Don’t be shy; proper seasoning makes all the difference.
- Tomato Soup – A canned classic that acts as the backbone of our broth. It contributes a rich, slightly sweet, and tangy tomato flavor, while also providing a lovely thick consistency to the stew. This is a key ingredient that sets Mulligan Stew apart.
- Water – Used in conjunction with the tomato soup to create the perfect simmering liquid. A good rule of thumb is to use two cans of water for every can of tomato soup, ensuring the right balance and consistency for your stew.
- Carrots – Sliced carrots add natural sweetness, a vibrant pop of color, and a pleasant tender-crisp texture. They are an indispensable component of any classic stew.
- Potatoes – Cubed potatoes bring heartiness, absorb the rich flavors of the broth, and provide a comforting, substantial element to the stew. Any type of potato will work, but waxy varieties tend to hold their shape best.
- Onion – A large, chopped white onion is my go-to for its pungent aroma and sweet flavor when cooked down, forming an aromatic base for the stew. Yellow onions or even red onions would also be suitable substitutes.
- Celery Seed – This small but mighty spice adds a distinctive, earthy, and slightly peppery flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully, giving the stew an extra layer of depth.
- Kitchen Bouquet – An optional but highly recommended browning sauce. It’s fantastic for adding a deep, rich, and savory flavor profile, as well as a more appealing dark color to your stew, making it look and taste even more robust.
Beyond these core ingredients, I often like to enhance my Mulligan Stew by adding a couple of chopped stalks of fresh celery, which provide another layer of aromatic flavor and a slight crunch. My Mother-in-law, in her pragmatic wisdom, sometimes opts for a blend of frozen stew vegetables, which is a fantastic shortcut without sacrificing taste. Another secret ingredient that truly makes this stew super yummy, if you can find them, are those delightful little frozen pearl onions. Their delicate sweetness adds an extra special touch, though they aren’t always easy to locate.
How to Make This Delicious Mulligan Stew Recipe
This one-pot beef stew is celebrated for how quickly and easily it comes together, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. Here’s how to create this comforting masterpiece:
- Begin by heating your chosen oil in a sturdy Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add your beef stew meat. Season the beef generously with salt and pepper, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to gently stir and brown the meat evenly on all sides. This browning step is crucial as it creates a flavorful “fond” – the browned bits at the bottom of the pot – which will infuse the entire stew with deep flavor. After browning, stir in the Kitchen Bouquet, if using, to further enhance the color and savory notes.
- Reduce the heat to low. Pour in the can of tomato soup and the two cans of water. Stir everything together, ensuring the beef is mostly submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot tightly with a lid and let the stew simmer gently for about an hour. The goal during this stage is to allow the beef to become wonderfully tender, slowly breaking down and absorbing the rich flavors of the broth. Check occasionally to ensure it’s not boiling too vigorously.
- After the initial simmering period, add the carrots, chopped onion, cubed potatoes, and celery seeds to the pot. Stir to combine these fresh additions with the tender beef and flavorful broth. Cover the pot once more and continue to cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until the carrots and potatoes are fork-tender. During this final cooking stage, check the liquid level; if the stew appears too thick or needs more moisture, add a little extra water, a quarter cup at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. Conversely, if your stew is too thin, simply remove the lid and allow it to cook uncovered for a few extra minutes, letting some of the liquid evaporate and the stew to naturally thicken.
Leftover Mulligan Stew is just as delightful, if not more so, on subsequent days! It can be stored safely in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer preservation, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply defrost the frozen stew in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently over the stove or quickly in the microwave until thoroughly warmed through. The flavors often deepen and meld beautifully after a day or two, making leftovers a real treat.
Love it? Pin it!
If you absolutely love this comforting hobo stew and want to ensure you can find it easily again, don’t let it slip away! Make sure to Pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board before you navigate away. Sharing is caring, and your friends might love it too!
Frequently Asked Questions About This Classic Irish-Inspired Stew
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What is Mulligan stew made of? Mulligan stew is traditionally a hearty and adaptable dish made primarily with meat (often beef), potatoes, and a variety of root vegetables like carrots and onions, all simmered in a savory broth. Its defining characteristic is its flexibility, as you can truly throw in whatever else you have on hand or can easily acquire, embracing the “hobo stew” philosophy.
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Why do they call it Mulligan stew? The name “Mulligan” is believed to be derived from a common Irish surname, perhaps reflecting its roots as an adaptation or simplification of classic Irish Beef Stews. Historically, during challenging times like the Great Depression, this type of stew was made with whatever food scraps or readily available ingredients people could find, earning it the nickname “hobo stew” due to its resourcefulness.
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What is another name for Mulligan stew? Another very common and historically significant name for Mulligan stew is “hobo stew.” This name clearly points to its origins and the resourceful nature of its preparation, using whatever provisions were available.
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What is hobo stew made of? A hobo stew embodies the spirit of using what’s available. It’s typically made with whatever meat or vegetables you can “scrounge up,” making it incredibly versatile and often a unique reflection of the ingredients at hand. Common components include various meats, potatoes, onions, carrots, and other seasonal vegetables.
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What is a Mulligan? In the culinary context, a “Mulligan” refers to a stew concocted from odds and ends, various food scraps, or essentially whatever bits and pieces of ingredients you can find in your pantry or fridge. It’s a celebration of resourcefulness and making a delicious, satisfying meal from humble beginnings.
What’s a Great Side Dish to Serve with Beef Stew?
While Mulligan Stew is incredibly filling on its own, pairing it with the right side dish can elevate the entire meal. Here are some fantastic options that perfectly complement its rich flavors and hearty texture:
- Peasant Bread: A rustic, crusty bread is ideal for soaking up every last drop of that savory broth.
- Crusty Dutch Oven Bread: Another excellent choice for a homemade touch, offering a delightful contrast in texture.
- Crock Pot Applesauce: A surprising but wonderful accompaniment, its sweet and tart notes provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the stew.
- Cheesy Cornbread Drop Biscuits: For something a little more indulgent and flavorful, these biscuits are perfect for dipping.
Smart Substitutions for Your Mulligan Stew
One of the most appealing aspects of Mulligan Stew is its inherent flexibility. Remember that when it comes to making substitutions in recipes, you shouldn’t be afraid to get creative and confidently use ingredients that perfectly suit your personal taste, dietary preferences, or what you simply have on hand. Make this stew truly your own!
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Meat Alternatives: Instead of beef chunks, consider using ground beef for a slightly different texture and faster cooking time. You could also experiment with stewing lamb or even pork shoulder for varied flavors.
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Veggie Boosts: For even more veggie goodness and nutrients, try adding frozen green beans, sweet corn, peas, diced bell peppers, or sliced mushrooms during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking.
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Tomato Soup Alternatives: If you don’t have tomato soup, you can substitute a combination of 2-3 tablespoons of concentrated tomato paste dissolved in about 2.5 cups of beef broth or cold water. This will give you a similar rich tomato flavor and liquid base.
Helpful Tips & Tricks for Perfect Mulligan Stew
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Choosing Your Potatoes Wisely: If possible, opt for waxy potatoes like red potatoes, Yukon Golds, or new potatoes. These varieties contain less starch and will hold their shape better during the long simmering process, preventing them from dissolving into the stew. Russet potatoes, while fine, are very starchy and might break down more easily, leading to a cloudier, thicker broth.
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Making Slow Cooker Mulligan Stew: This recipe adapts beautifully to a slow cooker. The key is to brown the beef thoroughly in a separate pan on the stovetop first – this step is crucial for developing deep flavor. After browning, transfer the beef to your slow cooker, then add all remaining ingredients (tomato soup, water, carrots, onion, potatoes, celery seed, Kitchen Bouquet). Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are soft.
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Boosting Flavor: For an even more complex and aromatic stew, consider stirring in a few bay leaves during the simmering process (remember to remove them before serving). Adding a few minced cloves of fresh garlic when you sauté the onions will also infuse a wonderful aroma. A dash of Worcestershire sauce can also provide a subtle umami depth.
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Adjusting Consistency for “Soup” Lovers: If you prefer a lighter, more soup-like consistency, simply add extra liquid. Beef broth or chicken broth are excellent choices to thin out the stew to your desired preference without diluting the flavor.
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Making it Heartier: To create an even more substantial and filling stew, don’t hesitate to incorporate a can of drained lima beans, kidney beans, or any other canned beans you happen to have lingering in your pantry. Add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking to ensure they heat through without becoming mushy.
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Achieving a Super Thick Stew: If you desire a noticeably thicker stew, you can easily achieve this. Towards the end of the cooking time, create a slurry by whisking 1-2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour or cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water until smooth. Stir this mixture gradually into the simmering stew and cook for a few more minutes, stirring constantly, until the stew reaches your preferred thickness.
More Comforting Recipes to Love
If you’ve enjoyed the comforting embrace of this Mulligan Stew, you’ll be thrilled to discover more of our favorite hearty and wholesome recipes perfect for any occasion:
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Oyster Stew: A unique and surprisingly delicate seafood stew.
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Rustic Harvest Stew: A delightful blend of seasonal vegetables and savory broth.
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Taco Stew: A fun and flavorful twist on traditional stew, packed with Tex-Mex inspired flavors.
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Stuffed Pepper Soup: All the deliciousness of stuffed peppers in a comforting soup form.
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Hamburger Soup With Or Without Noodles (pictured above): A family-friendly classic that’s both easy and satisfying.
This Mulligan’s Beef Stew is truly the epitome of comfort food – simple, hearty, and deeply satisfying. I sincerely hope that your family cherishes and enjoys this recipe for many generations to come, creating new cherished memories around the dinner table, just as mine has.
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Print Recipe
Mulligans Stew
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds beef stew meat (such as chuck or beef round)
- 1-2 Tablespoons oil (extra virgin olive oil or other cooking oil)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon seasoned pepper (or freshly ground black pepper)
- 1 can tomato soup (10.75 oz)
- 2 cans water (using the empty tomato soup can)
- 3 carrots sliced
- 3 potatoes cubed (waxy potatoes like red or Yukon Gold recommended)
- 1 large onion chopped (white or yellow onion)
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
- 1/2 Tablespoon Kitchen Bouquet optional, for richer color and flavor
Instructions
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Heat oil in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat. Add stew meat, season generously with salt and pepper. Brown the meat evenly on all sides, stirring occasionally. This browning creates deep flavor. Add Kitchen Bouquet, if using, and stir to combine.
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Reduce heat to low. Add tomato soup and 2 cans of water (using the empty soup can for measurement). Stir well. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer gently for about 1 hour, or until the beef is fork-tender.
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Stir in the carrots, chopped onion, cubed potatoes, and celery seed. Cover again and cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. If the stew appears too thick, add a little extra water, a quarter cup at a time, until desired consistency is reached. If the stew is too thin, cook uncovered for a few extra minutes to allow it to thicken. Serve hot with your favorite crusty bread.
Notes
For added flavor, I like to include a couple of chopped stalks of fresh celery to mine. My Mother-in-law often uses frozen mixed stew vegetables in hers, which is a convenient shortcut. Another ingredient that makes this stew super yummy, if you can find them, are small frozen pearl onions – they add a delicate sweetness!
Nutrition
This recipe was originally posted on December 9, 2015. It has been thoroughly updated and expanded to improve user experience, enhance SEO, and provide even more helpful information, then reshared on March 13, 2024.
