Straight from the bubbling pots of Mount Volbono in Super Mario Odyssey, Stupendous Stew is one of the most iconic dishes in the Mario universe. This colossal, simmering dish is the pride of the Luncheon Kingdom, made with the finest ingredients and cooked to perfection in a massive volcanic cauldron. While we may not have access to the exact magical elements that make the in-game version so irresistible, this real-world adaptation captures its essence. A rich, creamy, and slightly sweet tomato-based stew with a hearty mix of vegetables and meat, topped with a golden crust for that extra touch of grandeur.
This dish is perfect for family meals or game night gatherings, offering a comforting and flavor-packed experience that brings a bit of Mario’s adventure right to your table.
What Makes This Stew So Special
The Super Mario franchise has been around since the dawn of gaming. Its entire playstyle in its early days revolutionized the gaming industry with its innovations. From their cutting-edge design for Super Mario 64 to their beloved Mario Galaxy games. These games have shaped not only a generation but the entirety of gaming history. While I may not play them myself I do enjoy seeing what new things Nintendo puts out and what new recipes they cook up in the kitchen!
Some other games may also have some excellent recipes within their ranks. Take for example the Mario Party games with some tasty treats centered around mini-games as well as consumables to make your friends cry while you keep collecting those stars. Trust me you want to end a friendship do it with Mario Party it’s like magic.
Why is Mario’s Stupendous Stew is Worth Making
What makes Stupendous Stew such a special dish? It’s bold, colorful, and bursting with flavor, just like the world of Super Mario Odyssey.
- A rich, thick base – Inspired by the stew’s creamy texture in the game, this version uses a blend of tomatoes, cream, and Parmesan cheese for an indulgent and satisfying taste.
- Hearty and wholesome – Packed with root vegetables, tender chunks of beef or chicken, and savory herbs, this dish is filling enough for even the hungriest adventurers.
- A golden-brown finish – Topped with a flaky pastry crust or cheesy bread layer, mimicking the golden surface of the in-game stew.
- Vibrant and fun – Just like the bright colors of the Luncheon Kingdom, this stew features a playful mix of red tomatoes, orange carrots, and green herbs, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Breaking Down the Ingredients
For the Stew Base:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), chopped
- 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Protein: (Pick one or mix!)
- 1 pound beef stew meat (cubed)
- 1 pound chicken breast (cubed)
For the Golden Topping:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional for a cheesy crust)
How to Make Mario’s Stupendous Stew
1. Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
- Stir in carrots and bell pepper, cooking for about 5 minutes.
2. Cook the Protein
- If using beef, sear the cubes until browned, about 3–4 minutes per side.
- If using chicken, cook until golden but not fully done (it will finish cooking in the stew).
3. Build the Stew
- Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, paprika, and basil.
- Add broth and stir well. Bring to a simmer.
- Cover and let the stew simmer for 30–40 minutes until the meat is tender.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth and creamy.
4. Add the Golden Crust
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pour the stew into an oven-safe pot or casserole dish.
- Cover with puff pastry, sealing the edges.
- Brush with egg wash for a golden finish.
- Optionally, sprinkle cheese on top for a melty, cheesy crust.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes or until golden brown.
How Many People Does It Serve?
This recipe makes about 4–6 generous servings, depending on portion size. Perfect for family dinners or Mario-themed parties!
- For a small meal (2–3 people): Serve with a side of crusty bread.
- For a big gathering (6+ people): Consider making two batches or doubling the ingredients!
Presentation Guide – Bringing the Luncheon Kingdom to Your Table
To make your Stupendous Stew look as magical as it does in Super Mario Odyssey, here are some presentation tips:
- Serve it in a deep, rustic bowl or cauldron-like dish – This mimics the oversized pot in Mount Volbono.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves – A pop of green adds that final Mario touch.
- Use oversized ladles or wooden spoons – Feels more like an adventure meal!
- Pair it with colorful sides – A fresh salad with vibrant red, yellow, and green veggies matches the game’s aesthetic.
A Stew Worthy of a Superstar Chef
Mario’s Stupendous Stew isn’t just fun to look at, it’s an incredibly rich, comforting, and flavorful dish that brings warmth to any meal. Whether you’re making it for a game night, a cozy dinner, or just to celebrate your love for the Mushroom Kingdom, this stew is sure to power you up for whatever adventure comes next.
With so much to be done you must be itching to get into the kitchen and whip up a bowl of this amazing stew. Make sure you experiment as much as possible as recipes like these ones shine the brightest when you put a little imagination into it! Watch your culinary skills grow while consuming this red mushroom recipe!
So grab your ladle, channel your inner Luncheon Kingdom Chef, and get ready to cook up something truly stupendous!