Slow cooker beef stew is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for cold nights. This dish is easy to make and packed with tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich flavors. Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender over a longer period of time, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying meal. Here’s everything you need to know about slow cooker beef stew, along with a recipe to get you started.
What is Slow Cooker Beef Stew? Slow cooker beef stew is a savory and satisfying dish made with tender beef, potatoes, carrots, onions, and other vegetables, cooked low and slow in a crockpot or slow cooker. The beef is cooked until it becomes fork-tender and the vegetables are soft and flavorful. The resulting stew is rich, filling, and perfect for cold nights.
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Stew: Making slow cooker beef stew is easy and requires only a few simple steps. Here’s a recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs. of beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups of beef broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 4 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup of frozen peas
- 1 tsp of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp of cornstarch
- 2 tbsp of cold water
Instructions:
- In a slow cooker, add the beef stew meat, beef broth, onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, peas, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and cold water together until smooth. Stir the cornstarch mixture into the slow cooker until well combined.
- Cook the stew for an additional 30 minutes on high, or until the broth has thickened.
Tips for Making Slow Cooker Beef Stew:
- For an extra depth of flavor, sear the beef in a hot pan before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Use a mix of different vegetables to add more variety and flavor to the stew.
- You can use different cuts of beef such as chuck roast, stewing beef, or beef cubes depending on your preference.
- Add herbs like rosemary or bay leaves for added flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.
In conclusion, slow cooker beef stew is a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for cold nights. With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a delicious and satisfying dish that will warm you up from the inside out. Try this recipe and customize it to your liking for a cozy and flavorful meal that the whole family will love.