The Best Homemade Stewed Potatoes Ever (NOT Potato Soup!)

The smell of stewed potatoes always takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. I remember sitting at her worn, wooden table, the aroma of simmering potatoes, bacon grease, and a hint of onion filling the air. The taste was simple yet profound, a warm and comforting hug on a plate. It wasn’t fancy, but it was love, pure and simple, cooked into every soft, savory bite. Every time I make this dish, I feel like I am channeling her, carrying on a cherished culinary tradition.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6-8
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian (can be vegan with substitutions)

Ingredients

• 6-8 large potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 1-inch cubes)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons bacon grease (or vegetable oil for a vegetarian/vegan option)
• 1 pinch onion powder
• 1 pinch garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons flour
• ½ cup water
• 3 tablespoons butter (or vegan butter substitute)

Equipment Needed

• Medium pot
• Jar or container with a tight lid (for mixing flour and water)

Instructions

1. Start by peeling and cubing the potatoes into approximately 1-inch cubes. Place the cubed potatoes in a medium pot.
2. Fill the pot with water until the water level is about 3 inches above the potatoes. This ensures they cook evenly.
3. Bring the potatoes and water to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to medium and continue to cook the potatoes until they are just fork-tender, but not falling apart. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes. The goal is to have them cooked through but still holding their shape.
4. Once the potatoes are cooked to the desired tenderness, do NOT drain the water. Keep the potatoes in the same cooking water; this starchy water is key to the stew’s creamy texture.
5. While the potatoes are cooking, prepare the thickening mixture. In a jar or container with a tight-fitting lid, combine the flour and ½ cup of water.
6. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously until the flour is completely dissolved. This step is crucial to prevent lumps in the stew. Make sure there are no clumps of flour remaining.
7. Reduce the heat under the pot of potatoes to a gentle simmer.
8. While stirring constantly and carefully, slowly add the dissolved flour and water mixture into the pot with the potatoes. The constant stirring prevents the flour from clumping and ensures even thickening.
9. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, so that it can thicken. The flour will cook and the liquid will become more viscous.
10. Check the consistency of the stew. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can add a little more flour mixed with water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired thickness. Conversely, if you prefer a thinner stew, simply add a little more water, a few tablespoons at a time, until the consistency is right.
11. Now it’s time to season the stew. Add salt and pepper to taste. Also add the onion powder, garlic powder, and butter (or butter substitute).
12. Stir well to combine all the seasonings and allow the butter to melt completely. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Some people prefer more garlic powder, while others like a generous pinch of salt.
13. Continue to simmer the stew for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Bacon Grease Alternative: For a richer, smokier flavor, render some chopped bacon in the pot before adding the water and potatoes. Remove the crispy bacon bits and set aside to sprinkle on top of the finished stew.
• Vegan Variation: Substitute the bacon grease with a good quality olive oil or vegetable oil. Use a vegan butter substitute for a similar richness.
• Potato Choice: Russet potatoes will yield a slightly creamier texture, while Yukon Gold potatoes will offer a more buttery flavor. A mix of both is also fantastic.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
• Make Ahead: Stewed potatoes are even better the next day! The flavors meld and deepen overnight.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these delicious stewed potatoes hot, straight from the pot. They are fantastic as a side dish with cornbread, white beans, or black-eyed peas – a true Southern comfort meal! Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of water if the stew has thickened too much in the refrigerator. Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the potatoes may change.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	250 kcal	13%
Total Fat	8g	10%
Saturated Fat	5g	25%
Cholesterol	15mg	5%
Sodium	50mg	2%
Total Carbohydrate	40g	15%
Dietary Fiber	5g	20%
Sugars	2g
Protein	5g	10%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Creamy Stewed Potatoes: For an extra creamy version, stir in a splash of milk or cream (or non-dairy milk) at the end of cooking.
• Stewed Potatoes with Sausage: Add browned and sliced smoked sausage to the pot along with the potatoes for a heartier meal.
• Stewed Potatoes with Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or green beans for added nutrients and flavor. Add them to the pot along with the potatoes.
• Herb Infused Stewed Potatoes: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaf to the pot while the potatoes are simmering for a fragrant and flavorful twist. Remember to remove the bay leaf before serving.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use chicken broth instead of water?
A: While you can, using water is more traditional and allows the potato flavor to shine through. Chicken broth will alter the flavor profile significantly, making it less like traditional stewed potatoes.

Q: What if my stewed potatoes are too thin?
A: Mix a tablespoon of flour with a small amount of cold water until smooth, then stir it into the stew. Simmer for a few more minutes until thickened.

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can! Add all the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender. Thicken with a flour slurry at the end if needed.

Q: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
A: Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will give the stew a sweeter flavor and a different color. Adjust the seasonings to complement the sweet potatoes; a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg would be delicious.

Q: Can I omit the bacon grease?
A: Yes, you can use olive oil or vegetable oil for a vegetarian/vegan option. You may want to add a pinch of smoked paprika to mimic some of the smoky flavor from the bacon grease.

Final Thoughts

These stewed potatoes are more than just a recipe; they are a connection to the past, a taste of home, and a reminder of simpler times. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the comforting flavors for yourself. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking and make it your own. Share your creations with family and friends, and let the warm and savory goodness of these stewed potatoes bring everyone together. And don’t forget the cornbread!