Hearty Farmer's Stew with Minced Meat, Potatoes, and Bell Peppers

A Cozy Family Meal

This straightforward one-pot meal is perfect for cozy family dinners on cooler days. It combines soft potatoes, mild vegetables, and protein-rich minced meat in a thick sauce that children aged three and up often love. The soft texture makes chewing easy, while the bright colors invite them to taste.

Ingredients for the Stew

This recipe makes about two to three portions:

• 250 g minced beef (organic if possible)
• 400 g waxy potatoes
• 1 red bell pepper
• 1 yellow bell pepper
• 1 small onion
• 1 tbsp canola oil or olive oil
• 400 ml mild vegetable broth (low sodium)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp sweet paprika powder
• 1 pinch dried marjoram or thyme

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Peel the potatoes and cut them into bite-sized cubes. Wash the bell peppers, remove the seeds, and chop them into small pieces.
2. Peel and finely dice the onion. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
3. Add the onions and minced meat to the pot. Sauté until crumbly and the meat is completely cooked through.
4. Stir in the tomato paste and paprika powder, letting it roast briefly. This provides a lovely color and mild flavor.
5. Add the potato cubes and bell pepper pieces, then pour in the vegetable broth. Cover the pot and let everything simmer gently for about 20 minutes, until the vegetables are soft.
6. Allow the stew to cool down well before serving. Carefully check the temperature before your child takes their first bite.

Variations and Practical Tips

Swap the veggies: You can easily replace the bell peppers with zucchini, carrots, or peas. This makes it simple to adapt the dish to your child's preferences.

For the whole family: Adults can season their portions at the table with a little salt, pepper, or chili flakes.

Storage: The stew keeps in the fridge for about two days. It also freezes beautifully in individual portions for up to three months.

Adjusting texture: If your child prefers a smoother consistency, you can lightly mash the potatoes with a fork at the end until a thick, creamy texture forms.

Allergy Information and Safety

This recipe is generally free from the most common allergens, provided the vegetable broth does not contain celery or soy. Always introduce new foods one at a time and in small amounts to easily monitor for any reactions.

Ensure the minced meat is always cooked completely through. If you have any uncertainties about diet or digestion, please consult your pediatrician.

Valuable Nutrients for Every Day

This stew provides plenty of energy from the potatoes and valuable protein and iron from the minced beef. The bell peppers add an extra dose of vitamin C, which helps the body absorb the iron more effectively. This combination of nutrients supports growth and provides energy for active afternoons at the playground.