Halloween Pumpkin Stew

Embrace the autumn spirit with this hearty and festive Halloween Pumpkin Stew, a savory celebration of seasonal ingredients perfect for cozy nights. Packed with tender chunks of pumpkin, fall spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and a medley of vegetables, this versatile recipe includes an option for beef or a vegetarian-friendly mushroom substitute. Simmered to perfection in a rich broth with aromatic thyme and a hint of creaminess, this stew is as comforting as it is flavorful. Ideal for Halloween gatherings, serve it in a hollowed-out pumpkin for a show-stopping presentation or alongside crusty bread to soak up every bite. Ready in just under two hours, this wholesome dish offers a delicious and creative way to showcase fall’s bounty!

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:90 mins

Total Time:110 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 3 cups (cubed) pumpkin
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound beef stew meat (or mushrooms for vegetarian option)
• 1 large (diced) yellow onion
• 4 minced garlic cloves
• 2 large (sliced into rounds) carrots
• 2 sliced celery stalks
• 2 medium (cubed) potatoes
• 1 14-ounce can diced tomatoes
• 4 cups low-sodium beef or vegetable broth
• 0.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 0.25 teaspoons ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon (or to taste) salt
• 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
• 0.5 cups heavy cream (optional)
• 2 tablespoons (chopped, optional for garnish) fresh parsley

Directions

Step 1

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

Step 2

If using beef, season it with a pinch of salt and pepper, then brown the meat in the pot for about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef and set it aside. (Skip this step for a vegetarian version.)

Step 3

In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.

Step 4

Stir in the garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5

Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot and sauté for 5 minutes to lightly caramelize the vegetables.

Step 6

Add the cubed pumpkin and return the browned beef (if using) to the pot.

Step 7

Pour in the diced tomatoes and the broth, stirring to combine.

Step 8

Stir in the cinnamon, nutmeg, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper.

Step 9

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover. Let it cook for 60-75 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are soft.

Step 10

If a creamy stew is desired, stir in the heavy cream and heat gently for 5 additional minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 11

Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Step 12

Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Pair with crusty bread or serve in a hollowed-out pumpkin bowl for an extra festive presentation.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	3868.1 grams (3868.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2705

Total Fat 167.30g	214%
Saturated Fat 69.40g	347%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.80g
Cholesterol 451mg	150%
Sodium 4228mg	184%
Total Carbohydrate 201.80g	73%
Dietary Fiber 36.40g	130%
Total Sugars 59.90g
Protein 120.50g	241%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 833mg	64%
Iron 27mg	152%
Potassium 8850mg	188%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 53.9%

Protein: 17.2%

Carbs: 28.9%