Sure, sure, it’s just another beef stew –or is it? Think of the following recipe as a sort of Japanese chili: a meaty blend of ground beef and root vegetables tied together, and uplifted, by reducing ginger, soy sauce, and sugar down with the meat. Hearty, sure, but it also has depth and quite a bit of umami–which you can’t say about most stews or chilis. Your kid(s) will instinctively get it, even if they don’t know quite what makes it so tasty.
This Japanese ginger beef stew uses simple, toddler-friendly ingredients like ground beef, russet potato, baby carrots, and a savory ginger-soy broth that softens into comfort food perfection. The mild sweetness from brown sugar balances the umami of soy sauce, making it a dish both kids and adults can enjoy together.
Start by browning beef and aromatics, then build flavor with garlic-ginger paste before adding potatoes, carrots, broth, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Simmer covered until vegetables are tender, then serve in cozy bowls on its own or alongside soft rice.
What makes this stew kid-friendly?
The vegetables and beef are cut into small, soft pieces, and the ginger-soy sauce base is mellowed with just a touch of brown sugar so it’s flavorful without being spicy or overwhelming.
Between the broth and soy sauce, is it salty?
No. Full-flavored? Yes. But noticeably less salt-forward than, say, ramen or miso soup. Add a sprinkle of brown sugar to your child's bowl if you're worried about how full-bodied the beef stew is.
Can I serve this with rice?
Absolutely — this stew pairs beautifully with a simple side of The Most Perfect Toddler Rice Recipe that’s soft and easy to eat.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes — add finely diced veggies like peas or soft green beans in the last few minutes of cooking to increase color and nutrition without changing texture.
And check out all of our great toddler ground beef recipes!
This Japanese ginger beef stew is a savory, umami-rich blend of ground beef, potatoes, and carrots simmered with soy sauce and ginger. It eats like a cozy chili and is especially appealing to kids thanks to its familiar texture and mild sweetness.
Peel the potato, then chop into small cubes. Dice the carrots into small coins. If using, chop the onion into small pieces.
Once boiling, reduce heat to Low and cover the pot. You’ve got two options to finish:
While you can plate this atop or beside rice, it eats like chili, so don’t hesitate to serve it as is in a bowl. If you’ve cooked down the liquid, you could also put it on a bun and call it something like a sloppy joe.
Servings 5
Serving Size small bowl of beef and vegetables
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Brad (the Dad) is the founder and Chief Recipe Officer of New Dad's Kitchen. His own cooking/feeding journey started humbly during his son's infancy, preparing and managing his son's bottle intake in order to support his wife; it has since blossomed into a full-on passion to feed his child and family delicious and healthy meals that can satisfy both a toddler and his very tired parents.
