Beef & Pumpkin Stew

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10 or leaner)
• 2 cups pumpkin purée (plain, not pie filling)
• 1 cup brown rice (uncooked)
• 1 cup chopped green beans
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 4 cups low-sodium beef or chicken broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped spinach
• 1/4 cup peeled, diced apple (optional for palatability)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it into small crumbles. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the broth, brown rice, pumpkin purée, diced carrot, and green beans. Stir to combine.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
4. Stir in the spinach and olive oil. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until spinach wilts.
5. Remove from heat and let cool completely to room temperature before serving.
6. Portion into daily servings and store in airtight containers.