Beef Stew Recipe - Potion of Fortitude
Whether it's been an exhausting week, a frigid winter's day, or just a stressful time, few things are more comforting than a hearty bowl of stew. I make this beef stew for myself whenever I need a true pick-me-up or when I'm preparing for an in-depth magical working. It provides lasting energy, warmth, and strength.
Plus, this recipe is scalable - make a ton and freeze it to enjoy for weeks or just make a little bit for one meal. The measurements below are approximate; measure with your heart.
Ingredients:
Chuck roast, cut to half-inch cubes (you can get pre-chunked stew meat, which is what I typically get)
Flour, enough to coat the beef
Salt and Pepper (about 1 tsp salt & 1/2 tsp pepper), for seasoning the beef coating
2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
1 Onion, diced
2 Large Potatoes, peeled and cut into half-inch to one-inch cubes
2 Carrots, peeled and cut into rounds
5-6 Cloves of Garlic, finely diced
4 cups Beef Broth
Herbs of your choice, such as: Sage, Thyme, Marjoram, Celery Seed, Bay, Chili Flakes
Additional veggies of your choice, such as: Parsnips, Turnips, Bok Choy
Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions:
Mix together your flour, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss the beef chunks in the mixture to coat. This will create a nice brown crispiness on the outside.
In your stew pot, sauté your flour-coated beef until browned on all sides. Remove from the pot and set aside.
Add more oil to your pot and cook your onion until translucent. If you don't mind soft carrots in your stew, add them now and cook until just starting to soften and brown. (Note: I often leave the carrots until after the potatoes are nearly cooked through because I don't like the texture of fully-cooked carrots.)
Once your onions are translucent and your carrots have started to soften/brown, toss in your butter and scrape the bottom of the pot. You want to get all those beautiful, delicious brown bits back into the mixture. You can add a little water if you need help loosening the bits.
Add your garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Put your beef back into the pot (along with any drippings from the plate/bowl you placed it in). Pour your broth over everything and give it all a good stir.
Toss your potatoes into the pot. Bring it all to a boil and reduce your heat to let it simmer.
Add your herbs and spices. I recommend salt, pepper, sage, thyme, celery seed (or salt), and bay. If you like it spicy, you can throw in a bit of chili powder or flakes.
Simmer for at least one hour or until your potatoes are soft and your beef becomes tender, stirring occasionally.
If your stew isn't thick enough by the time your potatoes are done, you can make a cornstarch slurry by combining one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water. Pour the slurry into the stew and let it cook until thickened to your desired consistency.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve with crusty bread, veggie side dishes, or whatever else you like.
Optional magic you can include:
As mentioned above, I often use this recipe to bolster or replenish my energy before or after an intense magical working. It also works for physical exertions - I made this for a group of my partner's friends while they were moving heavy furniture to a new apartment, and it gave them all the energy to move everything in one night!
This stew has an intense comforting effect. If someone I know has been working hard, stressing out, or hasn't been feeding themselves properly, I'll make this for them to help them remember to take care of themselves. It's rejuvenating, hearty, and full of love.
Depending on the herbs you choose to include, this could also be a powerful protection spell. Especially in the cold months, I use this as a protective ward against the cold exhaustion that pulls at the body and mind.
Pop a bit of chili in this spell to both speed up its effects and cast out negativity! Nothing clears the sinuses like a nose full of spice, and nothing clears the body of bad vibes like a good dose of chili flake.
Like many of my spell recipes, this one is most effective when it's shared. Give a bowl to your friends, your family, your neighbors, whoever. It makes a wonderful offering to house spirits or ancestors.
If you make this recipe, please let me know your thoughts! And if you enjoy this or my other posts, please consider dropping a couple dollars in my Ko-Fi tip jar!
Happy cooking, witches! 🍲
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Nourishing Foods to Support Healing from Subchorionic Hemorrhage
Dealing with a subchorionic hemorrhage during pregnancy can be concerning, but your body's natural healing abilities, combined with a supportive diet, can contribute to your recovery. While medical guidance is essential, certain foods are recognized for their potential to aid healing, reduce inflammation, and provide vital nutrients. Here's a guide to incorporating these nourishing foods into your diet to support healing from a subchorionic hemorrhage.
1. Colorful Berries:
Berries like blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are packed with antioxidants that combat inflammation and promote tissue repair. Their vibrant colors signify the presence of beneficial phytochemicals that aid in healing.
2. Leafy Greens:
Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are rich in essential nutrients like vitamin K, which supports proper blood clotting. These greens also offer vitamins and minerals that aid in the body's natural healing processes.
3. Lean Proteins:
Incorporate lean protein sources like chicken, turkey, fish, legumes, and tofu into your diet. Protein is crucial for tissue repair and the production of enzymes that facilitate healing.
4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids:
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), flaxseeds, and walnuts, possess anti-inflammatory properties. These healthy fats contribute to reducing inflammation and supporting healing.
5. Whole Grains:
Opt for whole grains such as quinoa, brown rice, whole wheat, and oats. These grains provide sustained energy and essential fiber, aiding digestion and overall well-being.
6. Dairy or Dairy Alternatives:
Calcium is vital for bone health and blood clotting. Include dairy products like yogurt, milk, or fortified dairy alternatives like almond milk or soy milk to ensure an adequate calcium intake.
7. Vitamin C-Rich Foods:
Foods high in vitamin C, including citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruits), bell peppers, and strawberries, aid in collagen production and tissue repair.
8. Iron-Rich Foods:
Maintaining proper iron levels is essential, especially during pregnancy. Incorporate iron-rich foods like lean meats, poultry, beans, lentils, and fortified cereals to support healthy blood levels.
9. Hydration:
Staying well-hydrated supports circulation and overall health. Drinking water and consuming hydrating foods like watermelon and cucumber can aid in recovery.
10. Herbs and Spices:
Turmeric and ginger are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Adding these herbs and spices to your meals can help reduce inflammation and support healing.
11. Healthy Fats:
Avocado, nuts, seeds, and olive oil provide healthy fats that facilitate cellular function, hormone production, and overall healing.
12. Nutrient-Dense Snacking:
Choose nutrient-dense snacks like almonds, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds. These options supply essential vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats to aid healing.
Conclusion:
While dietary choices cannot replace medical care, they can play a supportive role in healing from a subchorionic hemorrhage. Consult your healthcare provider before making any significant dietary changes. By incorporating these nourishing foods, you're empowering your body with the nutrients it needs to heal, recover, and thrive during this crucial time.
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