A
stew is a combination of solid
food ingredients that have been
cooked in
liquid and served in the resultant
gravy. Ingredients in a stew can include any combination of
vegetables (such as
carrots,
potatoes,
onions,
beans,
peppers and
tomatoes),
meat, especially tougher meats suitable for slow-cooking, such as
beef.
Poultry,
sausages, and
seafood are also used. While water can be used as the stew-cooking liquid,
wine,
stock, and
beer are also common.
Seasoning and
flavourings may also be added. Stews are typically cooked at a relatively low temperature (
simmered, not
boiled), allowing flavors.