Crock Pot Beef Stew

Name: Crock Pot Beef Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 480 min
Total time: 500 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck (cut into 1-inch pieces); 4 medium potatoes (diced); 3 carrots (sliced); 1 onion (chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 4 cups beef broth; 1 cup red wine (optional); 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Enjoy a bowl of comfort with this crock pot beef stew, a classic dish that brings together tender beef, hearty vegetables, and savory broth. Perfect for busy days, this recipe allows you to set it and forget it, providing a delicious meal with minimal effort. Your family will love the rich flavors and tender textures, making it a go-to for any weeknight dinner or cozy gathering.

Ingredients

– 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 4 medium potatoes, diced
– 3 carrots, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh parsley for garnish

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 6 to 8 hours on low heat or 4 hours on high heat.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 bowl) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 15g fat, 35g carbohydrates, and 5g fiber. This is based on one serving and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the beef in batches, ensuring all sides are seared.
3. Transfer the browned beef to the crock pot.
4. In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
5. Add the sautéed onions and garlic to the crock pot.
6. Layer diced potatoes and sliced carrots on top of the meat.
7. In a bowl, mix beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper.
8. Pour the mixture over the ingredients in the crock pot.
9. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
10. Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley.

Alternative Ingredients

Feel free to substitute beef chuck with stew meat or even chicken for a lighter option. You can also use frozen vegetables instead of fresh, making it even easier to prepare this hearty stew.

Serving and Pairings

Crock pot beef stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a glass of red wine.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the stew for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Cooking Mistakes

Not browning the meat properly can lead to less flavor.
Overcrowding the crock pot can prevent even cooking.
Using too much liquid can make the stew soupy instead of hearty.
Skipping the seasoning can lead to bland results.
Not allowing enough cooking time can result in tough meat.

Helpful Tips

Always cut vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
Use quality beef for the best flavor and tenderness.
Consider adding herbs like rosemary for extra depth.
Let the stew cool completely before storing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen beef for the stew?

Yes, you can use frozen beef, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Browning the meat before adding it to the crock pot enhances the flavor.

How do I thicken my beef stew?

To thicken the stew, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Can I make this stew in advance?

Absolutely! The flavors deepen over time, making it perfect for meal prep. Just reheat before serving.

What can I serve with beef stew?

Crock pot beef stew goes well with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh salad. It’s also great with mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.

Is beef stew gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free beef broth and avoid flour for thickening, the stew can be gluten-free.

Conclusion

Crock pot beef stew is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. With simple ingredients and a hands-off cooking method, this dish is perfect for both busy weeknights and leisurely weekends. Enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings to your table!