
The Best Paleo Beef Stew (GF/DF/Paleo)
I first created this easy paleo beef stew while trying to brainstorm good camping recipes. I ended up making this at home and hauling the leftovers to the mountains as an easy fireside heat up dinner. If you have never had stew by campfire, I highly recommend you do. There is just something so cozy about eating a hearty stew next to a warm fire in the cold mountain air that totally elevates the experience of this dish.
Stuck at home? No problem. It’s still delicious and even better the next day! I like mine topped with cilantro for a fresh twist, but it doesn’t need it. The recipe is good as is.
To learn a little bit more about why we should be buying grass fed and finished beef, see my quick discussion about it here.
Bone Broth 101
But today, let’s talk bone broth. Why is bone broth all the rage instead of regular old beef broth? Well, bone broth is cooked low and slow for at least 24 hours with a bit of acid so that all the gelatin and collagen is leached out of the bones and into the broth. Why is this important?
Glycine and proline, 2 amino acids found in the gelatin of bone broth, are responsible for gut repair, immune function, reduced inflammation, muscle repair and growth, good quality sleep and nervous system functioning. This is one reason why bone broth is recommended for those with arthritis or intestinal disorders.
Bone broth made with vinegar is also an excellent source of absorbable minerals including calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and potassium. It also contains glucosamine and chondroitin, which you may have heard as supplements sold for arthritis and joint health. Yep, they are in bone broth!
The gelatin itself can heal a leaky gut, assist in healing for those with inflammatory or autoimmune conditions, can reduce joint pain, and can help build healthy hair, nails and skin.
Can I make my own?
Yes, it’s easily done. I usually take leftover fish or chicken bones (or purchase beef bones from your local butcher) and put them in a crock pot. Add 1/4c – 1/2c vinegar and cover with filtered water. Simmer for 24 hours. The longer you cook it, the more you can leach from the bones. Then drain the solids and use it in this paleo beef stew recipe (or freeze for later use).
Some people like to roast their bones first which helps bring out the flavor of the bones, but it’s not necessary.
Too busy to make your own? Don’t have bones? Purchase Kettle and Fire brand bone broth which is a high quality broth you can find at almost any grocery store.

The Best Paleo Beef Stew
Ingredients
- 1 organic grass fed chuck roast, cubed 2-4lb is fine
- 2 tbs avocado oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
- 1 bunch red chard, sliced
- 2 zucchini, chopped
- 10 rainbow carrots, sliced
- 8 baby yellow potatoes, quartered alternatively you could use a sweet potato
- 8 oz sliced baby portabella mushrooms
- 4 cups bone broth I recommend Kettle and Fire Beef Bone Broth
- 3 bay leaves
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large stock pot over high heat. Add beef and cook until deep brown on both sides. Add in onion and garlic and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until onion translucent.
- Add veggies, bone broth and spices. Bring to a boil. Cover and simmer over medium low heat 30 minutes or until veggies and beef pieces are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Notes

References:
Front Neuro. 2012. The Effects of Glycine on Subjective Daytime Performance in Partially Sleep-Restricted Healthy Volunteers.
Weston A Price. How to Make Bone Broth.
Ben Greenfield Fitness. Bone Broth FAQ.

