Hearty and Flavorful French Canadian Meatball Stew

Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of this traditional French Canadian Meatball Stew. Made with tender meatballs, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs, this hearty stew is the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings. Serve with crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal that will warm you from the inside out.

Ingredients

• For the Meatballs:
• - 1 pound ground beef
• - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• - 1/4 cup milk
• - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• - 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• - 1 clove garlic, minced
• - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• - 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• - 1/2 teaspoon salt
• - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• - 1 egg, beaten
• For the Stew:
• - 2 tablespoons olive oil
• - 1 onion, diced
• - 2 carrots, diced
• - 2 celery stalks, diced
• - 2 cloves garlic, minced
• - 1 bay leaf
• - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• - 4 cups beef broth
• - 1 cup diced tomatoes
• - 1 cup frozen peas
• - Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine all the meatball ingredients. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
2. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs from the pot and set aside.
4. In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are slightly softened.
5. Add the bay leaf, dried thyme, beef broth, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
6. Return the meatballs to the pot and add the frozen peas. Cook for an additional 10 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and the peas are tender.
7. Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve the French Canadian Meatball Stew hot with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.

Interesting Facts