Crafted for comfort and ease, this beef stew recipe utilizes the slow cooker to enhance the flavors and textures of simple ingredients, resulting in a dish that is both deeply flavorful and incredibly satisfying.
Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 8-10 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high Serving: 6 servings Equipment: Slow cooker, skillet
Recipe: The Ultimate Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 bay leaf
Directions:
- Begin by tossing the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper until they are well coated.
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef and brown it on all sides, then transfer it to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is softened, then add these to the slow cooker as well.
- To the slow cooker, add the sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, chopped celery, dried thyme, dried rosemary, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, and bay leaf. Stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, depending on your schedule.
- Once cooking is complete, the beef should be tender and the vegetables cooked through. Remove the bay leaf from the stew before serving.
- Serve the stew hot, accompanied by fresh, crusty bread for dipping into the savory broth.
This Ultimate Slow Cooker Beef Stew is the epitome of comfort food, offering a delicious and effortless way to satisfy your cravings for a warm, inviting meal. Perfect for any day of the week, it’s a dish that promises to delight everyone at your table. Enjoy the complex layers of flavor that only a slow-cooked stew can provide!
