Using a slow cooker is a fantastic way to make delicious, tender, and flavorful meals with minimal effort. Whether you’re preparing a hearty stew, a succulent roast, or even a sweet dessert, the slow cooker can handle it all, allowing flavors to meld together beautifully over several hours. Here’s a versatile recipe for a Slow Cooker Beef Stew that’s sure to be a hit for any occasion.
Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen corn
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prep the Beef:
- In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, pepper, and paprika. Add beef cubes and toss to coat evenly.
- Brown the Beef (optional but recommended for added flavor):
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches and sear on all sides until browned. Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the onion and garlic until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- Deglaze and Combine:
- Pour a little beef broth into the skillet to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Pour this into the slow cooker. Add the remaining beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Stir to combine.
- Add Remaining Ingredients:
- Add the sliced carrots and cubed potatoes to the slow cooker. Stir to ensure everything is well mixed.
- Cook:
- Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender.
- Finish the Stew:
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the frozen peas and corn. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Continue cooking until the peas and corn are heated through.
- Serve:
- Garnish the stew with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy with crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy rice.
Tips:
- Meat Selection: Choosing the right cut of beef is important. Chuck roast, cut into pieces, works well for stew as it becomes very tender when cooked slowly.
- Thickening the Stew: If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables according to your preference or what’s in season, such as mushrooms, celery, or sweet potatoes.
Slow cookers are truly a “set it and forget it” approach to cooking, making them ideal for busy days. Enjoy your hearty and delicious slow cooker beef stew, a meal that’s sure to comfort and satisfy.