This story explores the history of Grandmother Taylor’s Beef Stew, a recipe that my husband’s family has handed down through the generations.

Want to make it yourself? The full recipe and instructions are included below the video.

Grandmother Taylor’s Beef Stew

Ingredients

• 1 large ham bone
• Water (to cover)
• 1 lb sliced beef – cut of your choice
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1/4 cup diced green pepper
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 1 can chopped tomatoes
• 1 can field peas
• 1/4 cup chopped okra
• 2 cups diced potatoes
• 1/2 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup sliced green beans
• 2 cups corn kernels
• 2 cups green peas

Recipe

1. Add hambone to large pot — preferably dutch oven — and cover in water; bring to a boil and then simmer on low heat for a few hours to create a concentrated stock.
2. In a large pan, add a bit of fat of your choice — butter, oil, etc. — and then begin browning the beef.
3. Once the beef is cooked about half-way, add the onions, green pepper, and celery, then cook altogether until softened.
4. Add the beef and vegetables to the ham stock and stir well to combine.
5. One at a time, stir in the tomatoes, field peas, okra, potatoes, carrots, green beans, corn, and green peas; add water to cover, if needed.
6. Cook on low overnight, at least 12 hours. The longer, the better!
7. Enjoy.

---

This story was created by Kat Oak Stevenson.

It features interview footage with Michelle Stevenson, as well as personal artifacts. Some photos and footage are courtesy of Creative Commons sources.