Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Slow Cooked Beef Stew recipe. This hearty dish combines tender beef, wholesome vegetables, and a rich, savory broth that cooks to perfection in your slow cooker. Perfect for cozy family dinners or warming up on a chilly day, this stew is a testament to the power of comfort and flavor in a single bowl.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipments
- Slow cooker
- Large skillet
- Knife and cutting board
- Mixing bowl
How to Make Slow Cooked Beef Stew – Step By Step
Step 1: Start by Searing the Beef
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add beef chunks, searing them until they’re browned on all sides. This step helps lock in the juices and flavors, ensuring the meat stays tender throughout the slow cooking process. Once browned, transfer the beef to your slow cooker.
Step 2: Saute the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then sauté the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and diced potatoes. Cook until the vegetables start to soften, and the onions are translucent. This process enhances their natural sweetness and flavor which will meld beautifully into the stew.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker with the beef. Add the minced garlic, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together to ensure the ingredients are well combined.
Step 4: Add the Liquids
Pour the beef broth and red wine over the meat and vegetables in the slow cooker. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can simply substitute the red wine with additional beef broth. This liquid will slowly infuse into the ingredients, creating a rich, flavorful broth as it cooks.
Step 5: Let It Simmer
Cover your slow cooker and set it to low heat. Allow the stew to cook for 6-8 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and the flavors are well developed. The slow cooking process is essential in breaking down the beef, making it ultra-tender, while the vegetables absorb the flavorful broth.
How to Serve Slow Cooked Beef Stew
Serve your Slow Cooked Beef Stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley or alongside a crusty loaf of bread which is perfect for soaking up all the delectable sauce. You can even pair it with a side of steamed green beans for an added touch of freshness and color.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For best results, choose a cut of beef with some marbling such as chuck, which helps retain moisture and flavor. If your beef stew is a little too watery for your taste, try removing the lid during the last hour of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, mash some of the potatoes to thicken the stew.
High Protein Twist: Beef Stew for Muscle Builders
Want to pump up the protein content in your beef stew? Consider adding black beans or lentils for an extra boost. These ingredients not only increase your protein intake but also add a delightful texture and flavor to the stew. Simply rinse and add them to the slow cooker about midway through the cooking process.
Low Carb Luxury: Stew for Keto Lovers
If you’re watching your carb intake, you can easily adapt this recipe by swapping the potatoes with turnips or cauliflower florets. These alternatives mimic the texture of potatoes and soak up the stew’s flavors beautifully, ensuring you don’t miss out on any of the hearty goodness.
Storage Instructions
Your Slow Cooked Beef Stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove or microwave.
FAQs
- Can I use any type of beef? While the recipe calls for beef chuck, other cuts like brisket or round work well too.
- What can I use instead of red wine? You can substitute red wine with more beef broth or grape juice for a non-alcoholic option.
- Can I make this stew on the stovetop? Yes, simmer the ingredients on low in a large pot for about 2–3 hours.
- How can I thicken my stew if it’s too watery? You can thicken it by mashing some of the potatoes or by whisking in a slurry of cornstarch and water.
Conclusion: The Perfect Slow Cooked Beef Stew Awaits
Our Slow Cooked Beef Stew is a masterpiece of comfort that delights the senses and nourishes the soul. Ready to make your kitchen the coziest spot in your home with this delightful recipe? Try it out, share your results, and leave a comment below. We love hearing your personal takes and tips!
Slow Cooked Beef Stew
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- beef chuck
- olive oil
- onion
- carrots
- potatoes
- garlic
- beef broth
- red wine
- tomato paste
- thyme
- rosemary
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sear the beef until browned.
- Sauté onions, carrots, and potatoes until onions are translucent.
- Transfer beef and veggies to slow cooker; add garlic, tomato paste, herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Pour broth and wine over ingredients in the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours.