This is called Poor Man’s Stew but I feel so rich eating it!.

### Instructions:

#### 1. **Brown the Meat:**
Start by heating **olive oil** in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the **ground beef** (or your choice of protein), breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir occasionally until it’s browned and fully cooked, about **5-7 minutes**.

If you’re using beef or sausage, you might need to drain off any excess fat, especially if it’s a fattier cut. Once the meat is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside.

#### 2. **Sauté the Vegetables:**
In the same pot, add a little more oil if needed, then toss in the **chopped onions**, **carrots**, and **garlic**. Sauté the vegetables for about **3-4 minutes**, or until they start to soften and the onions become translucent. The smell of the sautéed onions and garlic is sure to fill your kitchen with a savory aroma.

#### 3. **Add the Broth and Tomatoes:**
Once the vegetables are softened, return the browned meat to the pot. Pour in the **beef broth** (or vegetable broth) and add the **can of diced tomatoes** (with their juice). Stir to combine everything together.

Add the **dried thyme**, **dried oregano**, **bay leaf**, **salt**, and **pepper** to the pot, and give it a good stir to distribute the seasoning evenly throughout the stew.

#### 4. **Simmer and Cook:**
Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about **20-25 minutes**, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender. If you’re using **frozen peas**, add them during the last 5 minutes of cooking to keep them bright and green.

#### 5. **Adjust Seasonings:**
After simmering, taste the stew and adjust the seasonings as needed. You can add a little more salt or pepper depending on your preference. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash a few of the potatoes right in the pot with a fork to help thicken the broth.

#### 6. **Serve and Enjoy:**
Once the vegetables are tender, the meat is well-seasoned, and the stew is full of flavor, it’s ready to serve. Ladle it into bowls and enjoy it with a slice of **crusty bread** for dipping.

### Why You’ll Love This Poor Man’s Stew:

– **Incredibly Budget-Friendly**: As the name suggests, this stew is designed to be affordable. It uses simple, inexpensive ingredients like potatoes, carrots, and ground meat, making it perfect for families or anyone on a tight budget.

– **Hearty and Filling**: Despite its humble ingredients, this stew is incredibly filling. The **potatoes**, **carrots**, and **ground meat** provide a satisfying and well-rounded meal that will keep you full for hours.

– **Easy to Make**: With just a few simple steps, this stew comes together in less than an hour. It’s the perfect weeknight meal when you don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen, but you still want something comforting and hearty.

– **Versatile**: The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily swap out vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand. Try adding **green beans**, **celery**, or even **corn** for additional texture and flavor. You can also use **chicken** or **turkey** instead of ground beef to change things up.

– **Nourishing and Comforting**: There’s something about a warm bowl of stew that makes you feel cared for. The combination of **meat**, **vegetables**, and **broth** is the ultimate comfort food—perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings.

### Tips for the Best Poor Man’s Stew:

1. **Make it Ahead**: Like many stews, the flavors of Poor Man’s Stew deepen and improve the longer it sits. If you have time, make the stew a day ahead and let it chill in the fridge overnight. Reheat it on the stove when you’re ready to serve.

2. **Add Extra Veggies**: Feel free to load the stew up with extra veggies like **zucchini**, **parsnips**, or even **sweet potatoes**. These additions will make the stew even heartier and more nutritious.

3. **Use Leftovers**: This stew is a great way to use up leftover meat or veggies from other meals. Don’t be afraid to get creative with what you have on hand!

4. **Adjust the Thickness**: If you prefer a thicker stew, mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot to create a more robust texture. If it’s too thick, just add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

5. **Spice it Up**: For those who like a little heat, add a pinch of **red pepper flakes** or a **diced jalapeño** to the stew for a spicy kick.

### Conclusion:

**Poor Man’s Stew** is a reminder that the best meals don’t have to be expensive or complicated. By using simple ingredients and a few basic seasonings, you can create a dish that feels luxurious and comforting at the same time. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or making a cozy meal for yourself, this stew is sure to warm your heart and fill your belly. It’s the perfect recipe for when you want to feel “rich” in flavor and comfort without the hefty price tag. So, next time you’re looking for a delicious, budget-friendly meal, give **Poor Man’s Stew** a try—it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation!