Beef Meatballs with White Beans

The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop and the ingredients to meld together, resulting in a delicious and comforting stew. The addition of baked meatballs adds a savory and protein-rich element to the dish. Garnishing with parsley adds a fresh touch and enhances the presentation. Enjoy this Slow Cooker Meatball Stew as a filling and flavorful meal for family and friends.

Serves: 8

ALLERGIES:

• SF (Shellfish)
• GF (Gluten)
• DF (Dairy)
• EF (Egg)
• NF (Nuts)

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 pounds baked meatballs (see recipe in bonus chapter)
• 2 tbsp. coconut oil
• 1 sprig dried thyme
• 2 cups uncooked white navy beans
• 4 cups beef stock
• Salt
• Ground black pepper
• 1 cup chopped onions
• 1 bunch chopped parsley
• 1 cup chopped carrots

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. If you haven’t done so already, prepare the baked meatballs according to the recipe in the bonus chapter. Set them aside for later use.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the coconut oil, dried thyme, uncooked white navy beans, beef stock, salt, ground black pepper, chopped onions, chopped parsley, and chopped carrots. Stir everything together to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
3. Set the slow cooker to cook on high heat and let it cook for 4 hours. This initial cooking period helps soften the beans and infuse the flavors of the herbs and vegetables into the stew.
4. After 4 hours, add the prepared baked meatballs to the slow cooker. Gently stir them into the stew, making sure they are submerged in the liquid.
5. Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking for an additional 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the meatballs are heated through.
6. Once the cooking time is complete, the meatball stew is ready to be served. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with additional chopped parsley.
7. Enjoy the Slow Cooker Meatball Stew as a hearty and flavorful main dish. The tender meatballs, creamy beans, and aromatic vegetables combine to create a satisfying and comforting meal.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

Here are some serving suggestions for the Slow Cooker Meatball Stew:

• Crusty Bread: Serve the stew with slices of crusty bread or garlic bread on the side. The bread can be used to soak up the flavorful broth and adds a delicious texture to each bite.
• Rice or Pasta: Accompany the stew with cooked rice or pasta. The tender meatballs and creamy beans go well with grains or pasta, providing a satisfying and well-rounded meal.
• Side Salad: Pair the stew with a fresh side salad to add a refreshing element to the meal. A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the hearty flavors of the stew.
• Steamed Vegetables: Serve the stew with a side of steamed vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, or green beans. The vibrant colors and tender-crisp texture of the vegetables provide a healthy and balanced accompaniment to the meatball stew.
• Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the stew before serving. The salty and nutty flavors of the cheese complement the savory meatballs and add an extra layer of richness to the dish. Note that this option may not be suitable for individuals with dairy allergies.
• Fresh Herbs: Besides the garnish of chopped parsley, you can also sprinkle some additional fresh herbs like basil or oregano over the stew. The aromatic herbs enhance the flavors and add a pop of freshness to each spoonful.

Remember to adjust the serving suggestions based on your personal preferences and dietary restrictions. These options provide a variety of accompaniments to enhance the flavors and textures of the Slow Cooker Meatball Stew, making it a satisfying and well-rounded meal for any occasion.