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Slow cooker beef stew

Easy Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe: A Hearty Comfort Food Classic

If you’re searching for the perfect dish to warm your soul on a chilly evening, look no further than this easy slow cooker beef stew recipe. Originating from humble beginnings, beef stew has been a staple in homes worldwide, revered for its adaptability and heartwarming qualities. Slow-cooked meals offer the unique blend of flavors that only time and patience can create, making this homemade slow cooker beef stew from scratch not just a meal but an experience. With tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and a richly flavored broth, this dish is sure to become a beloved favorite among family and friends. Whether you’re a culinary novice or a seasoned chef, preparing this delightful recipe will leave you feeling accomplished and satisfied.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step to create the ultimate beef stew that not only fills the stomach but lifts the spirit as well. Perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd, our recipe accommodates various tastes and dietary needs, including options for a vegan slow cooker beef stew. So, grab your slow cooker and letโ€™s get started!

Recipe Overview

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 hours (on low) or 4 hours (on high)
  • Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes (or 4 hours 20 minutes)
  • Serving Size: 6 servings

Ingredients

For the Beef Stew

  • 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 4 medium carrots, sliced into rounds
  • 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Optional Ingredients and Swaps

  • For a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons flour or cornstarch with some beef broth and add it in.
  • Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor.
  • Substitute beef chuck with stew meat for a quicker option, although the flavor may vary slightly.
  • For a vegan slow cooker beef stew, replace beef with mushrooms or jackfruit, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Equipment Needed

  • Slow cooker (4-6 quarts recommended)
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Spoon for stirring
  • Wooden spatula (optional for sautรฉing)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Cut the beef chuck into 1-inch cubes, ensuring that you remove any excessive fat for a leaner stew. Peel and slice your carrots, potatoes, and onion to bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic and set everything aside.
  2. Brown the Beef: In a large pan over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the cubed beef in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Allow the beef to sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until browned but not cooked through. This step develops a deeper flavor and creates a savory crust.
  3. Prep the Vegetables: Remove the browned beef from the skillet and set aside. In the same pan, add a splash of broth or water to deglaze the bottom, scraping up any flavorful bits. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until soft and fragrant.
  4. Combine the Ingredients: In your slow cooker, add the browned beef, cooked onions and garlic, carrots, potatoes, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using). Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
  5. Set the Slow Cooker: Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set it to cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. If possible, avoid lifting the lid during cooking, as this can add considerable cooking time.
  6. Check for Doneness: After cooking, remove the lid and check that the beef is tender and the flavors have melded beautifully. The stew should have a rich and hearty aroma. If the sauce appears too thin, you can thicken it by stirring in a cornstarch slurry (mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a little water) and simmering for an additional 30 minutes.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Discard the bay leaves. Ladle the beef stew into bowls and enjoy with warm crusty bread or crackers. The stew can also be garnished with finely chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Special Notes

Storage: Allow any leftovers to cool before transferring them to airtight containers. The beef stew can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. Alternatively, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then heat gently in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You can also use the microwave for individual servings.

Variations and Customizations

  • For a gluten-free option, make sure to substitute any flour used for thickening with cornstarch or arrowroot powder.
  • Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for an umami kick.
  • Include additional vegetables such as peas, green beans, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

Nutritional Information (Optional)

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 4g

Engaging Visual Details

As the stew cooks in your slow cooker, the aroma of savory beef and fresh vegetables wafts through your home, inviting everyone to gather around the dinner table. As you ladle the rich, dark stew into bowls, note how the tender beef glistens in the broth, surrounded by vibrant carrots and potatoes. Each spoonful is a delight for the senses, with the warmth of the stew comforting your taste buds while the complex flavors dance together. For visual guidance, consider including a sequence of images showcasing each preparation step, the browning of beef, and the final beautiful presentation.

Conclusion

There you have it! An easy slow cooker beef stew recipe that promises succulent beef, hearty vegetables, and rich flavor in every bite. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends and family. Donโ€™t hesitate to experiment with additional ingredients to make this stew your own! Leave a comment below if you tried this recipe, or share your version on Instagram and tag us with MyDeliciousDish! Happy cooking!

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