Slow Cooker Beef Stew: A Comforting Classic

Nothing beats the warmth of a bowl of Slow cooker beef stew recipe on a chilly day. This dish requires minimal effort and yields tender beef and rich flavors, perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners. With the slow cooker, the meat becomes tender, and the vegetables soak up all the delicious broth, creating a meal that everyone will love.

Why Use a Slow Cooker?

A slow cooker is perfect for making beef stew because it slowly breaks down the tough fibers in cuts like chuck roast, leaving you with melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. This low and steady cooking method also helps the flavors deepen over time, resulting in a hearty and flavorful stew.

For more tips on selecting the right beef, read Best Cuts for Beef Stew. Additionally, searing the beef beforehand can add even more flavor to the stew—discover why in Searing Beef for Stew.

Key Ingredients for Slow cooker beef stew recipe

To make a classic slow cooker beef stew, you will need:

• Beef: Chuck roast or stew meat are ideal for their fat content, which keeps them juicy during long cooking times.
• Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, onions, and celery are traditional, adding both texture and sweetness.
• Broth and Seasonings: Use beef broth, garlic, thyme, bay leaves, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a rich, savory base.

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Prepare the Beef

Cut the beef into bite-sized pieces, then coat it with flour, salt, and pepper. This step helps thicken the stew as it cooks.

2. Optional: Sear the Meat

Searing the beef before slow cooking enhances the flavor by caramelizing the exterior. While this step is optional, it adds a nice depth to the final stew.

3. Add Vegetables

Chop your potatoes, carrots, onions, and celery into large chunks. This prevents them from becoming too soft after hours of cooking.

4. Create the Broth

Whisk together beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, and seasonings. Pour this over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker.

5. Cook Slowly

Set your slow cooker on low and cook for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The beef should be tender and the vegetables perfectly cooked by the end.

Serving Suggestions

Slow cooker beef stew is a complete meal in itself, but you can serve it with:

• Crusty bread or Milk Brioche Rolls for dipping into the rich broth.
• A side of green salad to add a fresh contrast to the hearty stew.
• Complement the stew with a starchy side like Starchy Crispy Potato Balls.

FAQs

Do You Need to Brown the Beef First?

No, but browning adds flavor and texture. Learn more about this process in Searing Beef for Stew.

Can You Put Raw Beef in the Slow Cooker?

Yes, you can add raw beef directly into the slow cooker. Just ensure it cooks thoroughly for safety.

How Can You Thicken the Stew?

If your stew is too thin, add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken it.

Enjoy your slow cooker beef stew with friends and family, knowing you’ve prepared a delicious, comforting meal. Be sure to check out other hearty recipes like the Vegetable Beef Soup for more comforting options!

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