If you’re in search of a heartwarming meal that’s both delicious and hassle-free, look no further! Our slow cooker beef stew recipe offers the ultimate comfort food experience, simmered to perfection over a gentle heat. Perfect for chilly nights or when you want a meal you can set and forget, this beef stew will tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling nourished and satisfied.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- A dash of cornstarch mixed with water (optional, for thickening)
Equipments
- Slow cooker
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon
- Saucepan (optional for thickening)
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the onion, carrots, and potatoes into uniform pieces. Cut the beef chuck into bite-sized cubes and mince the garlic. Having everything ready will make the assembly process quicker and more organized.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add beef cubes in batches to sear until brown on all sides. This step enhances the flavor of the stew by caramelizing the outside of the meat. Once browned, transfer the beef to your slow cooker.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Add the chopped vegetables, garlic, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, bay leaf, and beef broth to the slow cooker along with the beef. Stir well to mix the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring the beef and vegetables are evenly coated with the broth and seasonings.
Step 4: Cook the Stew
Cover the slow cooker, set it to low, and let it cook for 7 to 8 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop and the beef to become tender. If you’re in a hurry, you can set the slow cooker to high and cook for 4 to 5 hours.
Step 5: Thicken (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker stew, 30 minutes before serving, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water in a small bowl. Stir this mixture into the stew and allow it to thicken during the last half hour of cooking.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe
Spoon a generous portion of beef stew into deep bowls, ensuring each bowl gets a good mix of meat and vegetables. Pair the stew with a crusty bread roll to sop up the delicious gravy, or serve with steamed rice for a more substantial meal.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For the best results, always sear the beef beforehand. Not only does this improve the flavor, but it also locks in moisture. If you’re tweaking ingredients, try adding mushrooms or parsnips for variation. Remember, fresher ingredients lead to a more flavorful stew, so opt for quality cuts of beef and fresh veggies.
Packed with Essentials: High Protein Beef Stew
Want to amp up the protein in your stew? Consider a high-protein version by adding kidney beans or chickpeas. Not only do they add extra nutrients, but they also complement the beef well. A sprinkling of shredded cheese on top just before serving can also enhance the protein content while adding a rich, indulgent finish to your meal.
To try this twist, simply drain and rinse a can of your chosen legumes and add them to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking. This way, they absorb the stew’s rich flavors without overcooking.
Low Carb Delight: Keto-Friendly Beef Stew
For those on a low-carb diet, making swaps in the original recipe can ensure you enjoy this stew guilt-free. Replace potatoes with turnips or cauliflower for a hearty yet light alternative. This maintains the stew’s comforting texture while slashing the carb count.
Another tip for a keto makeover: trim the recipe of any flour or cornstarch. Instead, you can thicken the stew with a bit of cream cheese for a creamy consistency without the carbs.
Storage Instructions
To store leftovers, let the stew cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can refrigerate the stew for up to 4 days. For longer storage, portion the stew into freezer-safe containers and freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until thoroughly warm.
FAQs
- Can I freeze the beef stew? Yes, beef stew can be frozen for up to 3 months in an airtight container.
- Is searing the beef necessary? While not strictly necessary, searing adds depth of flavor to the stew.
- Can I substitute chicken for beef in this stew? Absolutely, chicken can be a delicious alternative. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- How can I make my stew thicker? You can thicken it with a cornstarch slurry or let it reduce without the lid for the last hour.
- What can I serve alongside beef stew? Crusty bread, rice, or even a fresh salad work wonderfully.
A Warming Invitation to Try This Dish
Now that you have the know-how to create an irresistible slow cooker beef stew recipe, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and bring warmth to your table. Try out this recipe, share your thoughts, and delight your friends and family with your culinary prowess. Don’t forget to leave a comment below, let us know how your stew turned out, and share this recipe with fellow food enthusiasts!
Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- beef chuck
- carrots
- potatoes
- onion
- beef broth
- tomato paste
- garlic
- Worcestershire sauce
- dried thyme
- bay leaf
- Salt and pepper
- olive oil
- dash of cornstarch mixed with water
Instructions
Steps
- Prepare the Ingredients: Chop the onion, carrots, and potatoes. Cut beef into cubes and mince the garlic, preparing everything for easy assembly.
- Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Sear beef cubes until browned on all sides. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
- Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: Add vegetables, garlic, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, bay leaf, and beef broth to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Cook the Stew: Cover and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours, until the beef and vegetables are tender.
- Thicken (Optional): To thicken, stir in a cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes of cooking.