There’s something magically comforting about a warm bowl of beef stew, especially when it’s made effortlessly in a crockpot. Perfect for those chilly evenings or when you’re simply too busy to hover around the kitchen, our Crockpot Beef Stew recipe brings together tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and aromatic herbs to create a symphony of flavors that delight the soul and satisfy the palate.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 4 potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Equipments
- Crockpot
- Meat tenderizer
- Cutting board
- Kitchen knife
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
How to Make Crockpot Beef Stew – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Meat
Begin by seasoning the beef cubes with salt and pepper generously. Sprinkle the flour over the beef, ensuring each cube is lightly coated. The flour will aid in giving the stew a thick and velvety texture. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and brown the beef on all sides, working in batches. This step will enhance the stew’s richness.
Step 2: Chop the Vegetables
While the beef is browning, chop the vegetables. Slice the carrots, dice the potatoes, and chop the onion finely. Also, prepare the garlic by mincing it. Combining these fresh ingredients will add layers of flavor and texture to the stew.
Step 3: Layer in the Crockpot
Once your beef is browned and vegetables chopped, it’s time to layer in the crockpot. Start with a base of onions and garlic, then add the browned beef on top. Follow with layers of carrots and potatoes, which will absorb the stew’s luxurious flavors.
Step 4: Add the Liquid Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce until thoroughly combined. Pour this mixture over the layered ingredients in the crockpot. This blend of liquid ingredients ensures that your stew has a deep, savory taste.
Step 5: Season and Start Cooking
Finish by sprinkling thyme over the top of the ingredients. Season with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Cover the crockpot with its lid and set to cook on low for 7-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are cooked through. The slow cooking process melds the ingredients beautifully.
How to Serve Crockpot Beef Stew
Serve your crockpot beef stew hot, with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for color and an additional burst of flavor. Pair it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth or a side salad for a light complement. This hearty stew is perfect on its own or part of a larger meal spread.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For a beef stew that’s truly exceptional, choose a well-marbled cut of beef. The connective tissues in such cuts break down during slow cooking, enhancing tenderness and flavor. Additionally, consider adding a splash of red wine to the broth for a more complex taste, or give it an earthy twist by incorporating mushrooms.
Boost Your Meal with a High-Protein Version
Looking to maximize your protein intake? Simply increase the meat quantity or include legumes such as lentils or chickpeas. They blend effortlessly into the stew, adding both texture and nutritional value without dominating the flavor profile.
Enjoy the Comfort with a Low-Carb Twist!
Enjoying a low-carb diet doesn’t mean missing out on this beloved dish. Swap potatoes with turnips or cauliflower florets for a similar hearty feel. These substitutions maintain the comforting nature of the stew while fitting seamlessly into your dietary goals.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Crockpot beef stew also freezes well; divide into meal-sized portions and store for up to three months. When ready to devour, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove until warmed through.
FAQs
- Can I use a different cut of beef? Yes, you can use chuck roast or brisket for a flavorful result.
- Can I prepare the ingredients the night before? Absolutely! Prepare and store them in the fridge overnight to save time.
- Can I add wine to the stew? Yes, a splash of red wine adds depth to the stew. Just decrease the amount of beef broth accordingly.
- How do I thicken the stew more? You can mix equal parts flour and water to form a paste and stir it into the stew 30 minutes before it finishes cooking.
Conclusion: Dive into a Bowl of Comfort
With its ease and richness, our Crockpot Beef Stew is sure to become a staple in your culinary rotation. Guaranteed to warm the spirit and evoke cozy memories with each spoonful, don’t keep this joy to yourself. Share the recipe with friends, comment with your personal tweaks, and indulge in homemade comfort.
Crockpot Beef Stew
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- beef chuck
- carrots
- potatoes
- onion
- garlic
- beef broth
- tomato paste
- Worcestershire sauce
- thyme
- flour
- olive oil
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Begin by seasoning and flouring the beef cubes, then brown them in a skillet with olive oil.
- Chop the carrots, potatoes, onion, and mince the garlic.
- Layer beef, onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes in the crockpot.
- Combine beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour over the crockpot ingredients.
- Sprinkle thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.