Blustery winter days like those that are familiar in the month of January call for a hearty stew that can fill the house with wonderful smells and fill those in the house with warmth and contentment.
This is a recipe I found years ago in the “Tennessee Homecoming” cookbook. Published in 1986 in conjunction with then-Gov. Lamar Alexander’s Homecoming Tennessee, the book was part of the initiative to celebrate the histories and spirit of communities across the state.
Within its pages are recipes submitted by good cooks from across Tennessee, including this Low-and Slow Stew from Lorraine Whitler in Nashville. It’s ideal for a lazy winter day and really does live up to its name, since there’s no browning and everything is mixed together all at once in the pot in which it’s made.
I have a big stoneware pot that, in the winter, is dedicated to making the stew. It’s the perfect size, and when the lid is removed, a beautiful stew simmering with savory flavors is revealed.
This can be made in a slow cooker, but that stoneware pot just somehow adds a touch more comfort.