Hey there, food lovers! Have you ever dreamed of coming home to a kitchen filled with the mouthwatering aroma of beef stew that’s been simmering all day? Well, dream no more because this slow cooker beef stew recipe is about to make your culinary dreams come true.
Why This Recipe Works
- It’s a set-it-and-forget-it meal that cooks while you go about your day.
- The slow cooking process ensures the beef is tender and the flavors are deeply developed.
- It’s packed with hearty vegetables, making it a balanced meal in one pot.
- The recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for easy substitutions based on what you have on hand.
- It’s perfect for meal prep, as the flavors get even better the next day.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, cubed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker
- Large skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Start by tossing the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, browning on all sides. This step is crucial for locking in those juicy flavors. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet to ensure each piece gets a perfect sear.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, and minced garlic. Pour in the beef broth and red wine, then sprinkle with dried thyme and add the bay leaf. The liquid should just cover the ingredients. Tip: For an extra flavor boost, deglaze the skillet with a bit of the broth and add those tasty bits to the slow cooker.
Step 3: Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours. The stew is ready when the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are soft. Tip: Resist the urge to open the lid too often, as this can significantly increase cooking time.
Step 4: Adjust the Seasoning
Once cooking is complete, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the stew into bowls and serve hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes for an even heartier meal.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to elevate their beef stew game, consider these advanced tips. First, marinating the beef overnight in red wine and herbs can add an extra layer of flavor. Second, adding a parmesan rind to the stew as it cooks can impart a subtle umami richness. Lastly, for a thicker stew, you can mash some of the potatoes against the side of the slow cooker before serving or mix in a slurry of cornstarch and water during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the beef for lamb or chicken for a different protein option.
- Add mushrooms or peas during the last hour of cooking for additional vegetables.
- Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a sweeter twist.
- Incorporate different herbs like rosemary or sage to change up the flavor profile.
- For a gluten-free version, use almond flour or omit the flour altogether.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this stew without wine?
Absolutely! The wine adds depth to the flavor, but you can easily substitute it with additional beef broth or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for a similar complexity.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftover stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I cook this stew on high instead of low?
Yes, cooking on high will reduce the cooking time to about 4 hours. However, cooking on low allows the flavors to develop more fully and results in more tender beef.
Summary
This slow cooker beef stew is the epitome of comfort food, offering a hearty, flavorful meal with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home.