There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a hearty beef stew simmering all day in your slow cooker. This slow cooker beef stew is not only rich in flavor, but also easy to make, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones while it does all the work for you. Perfect for those busy days or chilly evenings, this stew is a surefire way to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs stewing beef, cubed
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 4 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 Yukon gold potatoes, diced
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup frozen peas
Equipments
- Slow cooker
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Stew – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Begin by seasoning the beef cubes with salt and pepper and then tossing them in flour to coat evenly. This step ensures that the beef will not only be flavorful but will also help thicken the stew as it cooks. The flour coating also gives the beef a wonderful crusty exterior when seared properly.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the beef on all sides until it develops a nice brown crust. This process, known as browning, helps to lock in the flavors and juices of the meat, creating a deeper taste in the stew.
Step 3: Assemble the Ingredients
Transfer the seared beef to the slow cooker. Add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and dried thyme to the slow cooker. Pour in the beef broth making sure all the ingredients are submerged.
Step 4: Cook the Stew
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 7–8 hours or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Cooking on low allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures a tender texture both in the beef and the vegetables.
Step 5: Add the Peas
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas. They add a pop of color and a touch of sweetness, giving your stew a balanced flavor profile. Make sure everything is well incorporated, and give the stew a final taste test to adjust any seasonings if necessary.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Ladle your hearty stew into warm bowls, perhaps accompanied by a slice of crusty bread for dipping. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Enjoy this stew as a standalone meal or pair it with a light salad for a complete dining experience.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For the best outcome, use good-quality, fresh beef and cut the vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the potatoes within the pot before adding the peas.
Beefed-Up Protein: Elevate Your Stew
If you’re looking to amp up the protein content of this scrumptious stew, consider adding a can of drained kidney beans during the last hour of cooking. The beans integrate seamlessly into the stew, providing added texture and nutrition without overpowering the rich beefy flavors.
Lower the Carbs with This Twist
For a low-carb version of this stew, swap out the potatoes with cauliflower chunks and reduce the carrot amount by half. You can also use turnips as a potato replacement. These changes will provide the same heartiness and warmth without the extra carbohydrates, making it suitable for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
Storage Instructions
Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the stew for up to 3 months, reheating it thoroughly before serving.
FAQs
- Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can substitute the beef with lamb or chicken, adjusting the cooking times accordingly.
- Is it necessary to brown the beef? While not essential, browning adds depth of flavor and is recommended.
- Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, and green beans make great additions to the stew.
- What can I use as a thickener? If you want a thicker consistency, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew during the last hour of cooking.
Summing Up and Bon Appétit!
There you have it—a foolproof guide to making Slow Cooker Beef Stew, a dish so satisfying it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your household. Please share this recipe with friends, leave a comment if you try it, and don’t forget to rate it below!
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- stewing beef
- beef broth
- tomato paste
- carrots
- Yukon gold potatoes
- Worcestershire sauce
- garlic powder
- salt and pepper
- all-purpose flour
- dried thyme
- frozen peas
Instructions
Steps
- Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then coat in flour.
- Sear the coated beef in a skillet with oil, until browned on all sides.
- Transfer beef to slow cooker, add carrots, potatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and thyme. Pour in beef broth.
- Cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours or until the beef is tender.
- Add frozen peas, stir well, and cook for another 30 minutes.