Introduction
Step into the realm of warmth and flavor as we delve into the ultimate comfort food: Slow Cooker Beef Stew. Picture tender chunks of beef, vibrant vegetables, and savory broth melding together in a symphony of taste and aroma. This hearty dish not only fills your belly but also warms your soul. Join us on this culinary journey as we share a simple yet satisfying recipe that will become a staple in your slow cooker repertoire.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Ingredients
2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces4 large carrots, sliced into rounds3 medium potatoes, diced1 onion, chopped2 cloves garlic, minced4 cups beef broth1 cup red wine (optional)2 tablespoons tomato paste1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce1 teaspoon dried thyme1 teaspoon dried rosemarySalt and pepper, to taste2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening, if desired)Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Brown the Beef (Optional): For added depth of flavor, you can choose to brown the beef before adding it to the slow cooker. Simply heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add a bit of oil, and brown the beef in batches until nicely seared on all sides. Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.Prep the Vegetables: Place the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic in the slow cooker with the beef.Make the Broth: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Pour this flavorful mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker.Cook Low and Slow: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 7-8 hours or on high heat for 4-5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.Thicken the Stew (Optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, you can make a slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour with a bit of water until smooth. Stir the slurry into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking, then continue cooking until thickened.Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the piping hot beef stew into bowls, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness, and serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls for sopping up the delicious broth.Why Slow Cooker Beef Stew?Effortless Preparation: Simply toss everything into the slow cooker in the morning, and come home to a comforting meal ready to enjoy.
Versatile and Customizable
Feel free to customize the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Add mushrooms, peas, or celery for additional flavor and texture.Budget-Friendly: This recipe makes use of affordable ingredients like stew meat and root vegetables, making it perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Conclusion
With its tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich broth, this Slow Cooker Beef Stew is the epitome of comfort in a bowl. Whether you’re battling chilly weather or simply craving a cozy meal, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. So, dust off your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and prepare to savor the deliciousness of homemade beef stew.
