At Story House Early Learning, mealtimes are more than just food on a plate; they’re moments of comfort, discovery, and full tummies. Behind the scenes at our Oak on Rangeville’s centre, our talented chef Miss K has been serving up nutritious, delicious meals with heart.
With a deep passion for creating child-friendly meals packed with goodness, Miss K has perfected dishes that our little learners genuinely look forward to. Curious what’s on the menu?
Today, we’re sharing one of these family favourites straight from Miss K’s kitchen, her much-loved Hearty Beef Stew with Dumplings recipe. Packed with protein, vitamins and healthy fats, this one’s a hit at lunchtime and perfect for the whole family to recreate at home.
Chef Miss K’s Hearty Beef Stew with Dumplings
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons olive oil (rich in healthy fats and antioxidants)
- 500 grams lean chuck steak, cut into cubes (a great source of protein and iron)
- 2 onions, roughly chopped (packed with vitamins and fiber)
- 1 large carrot, peeled and roughly chopped (loaded with beta-carotene and fiber)
- 1 celery stalk, trimmed and roughly chopped (adds vitamins and minerals)
- ½ swede, peeled and roughly chopped (a nutrient-dense root vegetable rich in vitamin C and fiber)
- 2 tablespoons plain flour (to thicken)
- 1 liter beef stock (provides rich minerals)
- 400 milliliters red wine (optional, adds depth of flavor and antioxidants)
- 2 bay leaves
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- For the suet dumplings:
- 195 grams plain flour
- 65 grams shredded suet (adds energy and texture)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 10 tablespoons cold water
- For the herby oat dumplings:
- 70 grams fine oatmeal (a great source of soluble fiber for digestion)
- 195 grams plain flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (rich in vitamins A, C, and K)
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary leaves, chopped (antioxidant-rich herb)
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (known for its antibacterial properties)
- 80 grams chilled butter (provides healthy fats)
Method
Prepare the stew:
Heat olive oil in a large casserole over medium heat. Brown the lean chuck steak for 3–4 minutes, then set aside.
Cook the vegetables:
Sauté onions, carrot, celery, and swede until golden brown, enhancing their natural flavors and preserving nutrients. Season with salt and pepper.
Create the base:
Stir in flour and cook until nut-brown to add a wholesome thickness. Slowly add beef stock, stirring to develop a rich, nutrient-packed sauce.
Simmer:
Return beef to pot, add optional red wine and bay leaves, simmer gently for an hour to tenderize the meat and blend flavors.
Make dumplings:
Prepare suet dumplings with simple ingredients for a comforting, energy-boosting addition. For a nutritious twist, the herby oat dumplings incorporate fiber-rich oats and fresh herbs for extra vitamins and antioxidants.
Cook dumplings:
Place dumplings on the stew after one hour, cover and cook until fluffy and cooked through.
Serve:
Enjoy a balanced meal full of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, perfect for nourishing both body and soul.
A wholesome, comforting dish packed with nutrients and flavor — perfect for any day!
Whether it’s their first taste of Beef Stew or a regular favourite, this dish is always a winner at Story House. It’s hearty, wholesome, and made with love, just how Chef Miss K likes it.
Stay tuned for more recipes and behind-the-scenes moments from our incredible team of educators, carers, and chefs.
