Garden-Fresh Beef Stew with Maple Dumplings Recipe

Garden-Fresh Beef Stew with Maple Dumplings Recipe

In this satisfying and filling stew, the flavours of rum and maple accent the beef and vegetables with a smooth sweetness.

1 1/2 tsp salt 7 mL
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper 2 mL
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper 5 mL
2 tbsp all purpose flour 25 mL
1 1/2 lbs lean stewing beef, cut in chunks 750 g
2 tbsp vegetable oil 25 mL
1 clove garlic, minced 1
2 bay leaves 2
1/4 cup dark rum 50 mL
4 potatoes, peeled and cut in chunks 4
4 carrots, peeled and cut in chunks 4
1 small turnip, peeled and cut in chunks 1
2 parsnips, peeled and cut in chunks 2
2 onions, coarsely chopped 2
1 small green pepper, cut in strips 1




Ingredients for Dumplings:
2 cups all purpose flour 500 mL
4 tsp baking powder 20 mL
1/2 tsp salt 2 mL
2 tbsp shortening 25 mL
2/3 cup milk 150 mL
1/3 cup maple syrup 75 mL


In a small bowl, combine salt, peppers and flour. Place flour mixture in a plastic bag, drop in pieces of stew meat and shake well to coat. In a dutch oven, heat oil, and brown beef on all sides. Add sufficient water to cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and add garlic, bay leaves and rum and simmer for about 2 hours or until beef is almost tender. Add potatoes, carrots, turnips, parsnips, onion and green pepper and continue to simmer until vegetables are tender - crisp.

How To Make Maple Dumplings: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder and salt, then cut in shortening. Combine milk and maple syrup in a small bowl and gradually add to flour mixture, mix with a fork until batter is moist. Drop by spoonful onto top of cooked beef stew. Cover pot and simmer for 15 - 20 minutes, until dumplings are cooked through. Makes 6 - 8 servings.