why make this recipe
Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a perfect dish for any busy day. It is hearty, filling, and packed with flavors. Using a slow cooker allows the ingredients to blend beautifully over time, making the meat tender and the vegetables full of taste. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal that requires minimal cleanup!
how to make Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Ingredients :
- 2 lbs stew meat
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 4 potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: bay leaves
Directions :
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the stew meat on all sides.
- Transfer the browned meat to the slow cooker.
- Add the carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic on top of the meat.
- In a separate bowl, mix the beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the meat and vegetables in the slow cooker.
- If using, add bay leaves.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, or until the meat and vegetables are tender.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
how to serve Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Serve the beef stew hot in bowls. You can enjoy it on its own or with a slice of warm bread or over a bed of rice. It makes for a cozy and comforting meal.
how to store Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Let the stew cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
tips to make Slow Cooker Beef Stew
- For extra flavor, add a splash of red wine to the broth mix.
- Don’t skip browning the meat; it adds depth to the flavor.
- Feel free to mix in other vegetables like peas or green beans.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste; you can always add more salt or herbs.
variation
You can make a lighter version by using chicken instead of beef. Simply replace the stew meat with chicken thighs or breasts and follow the same cooking process.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen meat for this recipe?
A: Yes, but it is best to thaw the meat before cooking for even browning.
Q: Can I make this stew without a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can cook it on the stove in a large pot. Simmer on low for about 2-3 hours until the meat is tender.
Q: Is it possible to make this stew spicy?
A: Yes, you can add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat. Adjust it according to your taste!
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs stew meat
- 4 pieces carrots, sliced
- 4 pieces potatoes, diced
- 1 piece onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 pieces bay leaves (optional) For extra flavor, if desired.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the stew meat on all sides.
- Transfer the browned meat to the slow cooker.
- Add the carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic on top of the meat.
- In a separate bowl, mix the beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the meat and vegetables in the slow cooker.
- If using, add bay leaves.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, or until the meat and vegetables are tender.
Serving
- Serve hot and enjoy.