Name: Tailgaters' Favorite Stew
Yield: Serves 6 to 8
Ingredients: 6 slices bacon (about 4 oz/125 g); 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp cracked black peppercorns; 2 lbs stewing beef, trimmed, cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes and patted dry; 2 onions, finely chopped; 2 stalks celery, diced; 2 carrots, peeled and diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 bay leaves; 1/2 tsp freshly grated nutmeg; Grated zest and juice of 1 orange; 1 1/2 cups barley (see tips) rinsed and drained; 1 can (5 1/2 oz/156 mL) tomato paste; 1 cup dry red wine; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup water; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper; Medium to large (3 1/2 to 5 quart) slow cooker

Image may contain Plant Dish Food Meal Bowl Produce Vegetable Stew and Bean

Tailgaters' Favorite StewColin Erricson/www.robertrose.ca

I can't imagine anything more appealing on a blustery day than a big serving of this ambrosial stew. It's great for potlucks and outdoor get-togethers because it's easily transportable and there is nothing to add.

Tips

If you are halving this recipe, be sure to use a small (approx. 2 to 3 quart) slow cooker.

The orange zest and juice add wonderful depth to this stew.

Use the variety of barley you prefer—pearled, pot or whole. Whole (also known as hulled) barley is the most nutritious form of the grain.

Variation:
Substitute wheat, spelt or Kamut berries for the barley.

Recipe notes

Chocolate Guinness Cake

A generous glug of stout gives this snackable loaf a malty depth.

Hot Honey–Glazed Salmon

This broiled hot honey salmon recipe results in sweet, spicy, glossy fish coated in a homemade hot honey glaze for an easy weeknight dinner or make-ahead lunch.

One-Pot Chicken Thighs With Cilantro Rice and Beans

This one-pot dinner cooks chicken thighs directly on top of a bed of flavorful cilantro rice studded with black beans for a complete dinner.

Caramelized Onion Pasta

Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.

Classic French Vinaigrette

Use this simple vinaigrette to dress a plate of greens, some steamed potatoes, or anything else that strikes your fancy.

Béchamel Sauce

This classic 15-minute sauce is your secret weapon for homemade mac and cheese, chowder, lasagna, and more.

Speedy Chicken Stroganoff

This easy, one-skillet chicken stroganoff features tender chicken breasts, savory mushrooms, and a creamy Dijon-crème fraîche sauce—perfect for weeknights.

Cod With Lemon Butter Sauce

A flurry of fresh tarragon makes this speedy weeknight dish of seared cod and luscious, sun-colored pan sauce feel restaurant worthy.