There’s nothing quite as comforting as a steaming bowl of beef stew on a chilly day. When made in a slow cooker, this classic dish becomes even easier to prepare. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and savory stew that will warm you from the inside out.
Ingredients
Equipments
While the list of ingredients is important, the right equipment can make a world of difference in your cooking experience. Here, you’ll need a trusty slow cooker, a sharp chopping knife, a cutting board, and a ladle for serving. These tools ensure you’re well-prepared to create this comforting dish.
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Stew – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. You’ll need beef chuck, carrots, potatoes, onions, garlic, beef broth, and an array of spices. Chop the vegetables into even pieces for consistent cooking. Cut your beef into bite-sized chunks. This preparatory work is crucial to ensure everything cooks evenly in the slow cooker.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
While it’s optional, browning the beef before slow cooking adds a deeper flavor to your stew. In a skillet over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of oil. Once hot, add the beef chunks in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Brown each side for about 4 minutes. This caramelization enhances the taste of the stew.
Step 3: Combine in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the browned beef into your slow cooker. Add the chopped vegetables, minced garlic, and dried herbs like thyme and rosemary. Pour beef broth over the mixture until everything is well immersed. Season with salt and pepper, and give it a gentle stir to combine the ingredients.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Set the slow cooker to low and let it cook for about 8 hours. If you’re short on time, a 4-hour run on high works too. The long, slow simmering ensures the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the vegetables soak up the hearty flavors.
Step 5: Thicken and Finish
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, if you prefer a thicker stew, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water to form a slurry. Stir it into the stew and let it continue cooking to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Serve this hearty stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. A side of crusty bread complements the rich stew and is perfect for sopping up every bit of the delicious broth. Alternatively, you could pair it with rice or egg noodles for a more filling meal.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For the best texture, use a well-marbled cut of beef such as chuck roast. It breaks down beautifully during cooking. If you’re aiming to cut down on prep time, opt for pre-cut stew meat. Also, consider adding a splash of red wine for a deeper flavor profile.
Packed with Protein: High-Protein Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Boost the protein content by adding ingredients like lentils or beans. Not only do they enhance the nutritional value, but they also add a delightful texture that complements the tender beef. Alternatively, increase the amount of lean beef, which naturally ups the protein content.
Delicious Yet Low Carb: Enjoy a Low-Carb Beef Stew
Substitute starchy potatoes with cauliflower or turnips for a low-carb version. These vegetables absorb flavors without spiking carb counts. Additionally, replace regular flour with almond flour or omit thickening altogether for a more brothy stew.
Storage Instructions
To store leftovers, let the stew cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the stew in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until thoroughly warmed.
FAQs
Can I cook beef stew on high in the slow cooker?
Yes, cooking on high for 4-5 hours should suffice, though low and slow tends to yield more tender meat.
How do I make my beef stew thicker?
Mix a slurry of cornstarch and water to add in the last 30 minutes of cooking for a thicker consistency.
Is it okay to freeze slow cooker beef stew?
Absolutely! Cool completely before freezing in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
What are the best cuts of beef for stew?
Chuck roast or round are ideal for stews as they become perfectly tender when slow-cooked.
Reflecting on Flavor: Concluding Thoughts on Slow Cooker Beef Stew
This slow cooker beef stew isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience of warmth and coziness, boosting family dinners with its robust flavors. Share your thoughts in the comments, or let us know if you put your own spin on it. Don’t forget to share this recipe with fellow food lovers and bookmark it for future cozy nights in!
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- beef chuck
- carrots
- potatoes
- onion
- garlic
- beef broth
- salt and pepper
- tomato paste
Instructions
Steps
- Prepare all the ingredients by chopping the vegetables and cutting the beef into chunks.
- In a skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat and brown the beef on all sides.
- Place the beef and chopped vegetables into the slow cooker, then add garlic and herbs.
- Pour the beef broth over the mixture, season with salt and pepper, and stir to combine.
- Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 8 hours.
- For a thicker stew, whisk cornstarch with water and add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking.