Crockpot Beef Stew
Warm up your evenings with a bowl of crockpot beef stew, where tender beef meets a savory mix of root vegetables in a luscious broth. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also allows flavors to meld beautifully as it simmers slowly. Perfect for busy days, simply toss in your ingredients, set the timer, and let your crockpot do the magic for a hearty meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
– 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 4 medium carrots, sliced
– 3 medium potatoes, cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 6-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) of crockpot beef stew contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 15g
– Fiber: 4g
This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Start by preparing all your ingredients: chop the vegetables and cut the beef.
2. In a skillet, brown the beef pieces on medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes.
3. Transfer the browned beef to the crockpot.
4. Add the sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic into the crockpot.
5. In a bowl, mix the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Pour the broth mixture over the ingredients in the crockpot.
7. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
8. Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
9. Once cooked, check the seasoning and adjust if necessary.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking to switch things up, you can substitute beef with chicken for a lighter version. Additionally, feel free to replace potatoes with sweet potatoes or add other vegetables like peas or green beans for variety.
Serving and Pairings
Crockpot beef stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or dinner rolls, perfect for soaking up the delicious broth. A simple side salad can also complement the meal, adding freshness to the hearty stew.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the stew in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it has thickened.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip browning the beef; it adds depth of flavor.
– Avoid overcooking the vegetables; add them halfway through if you prefer them firmer.
– Make sure to season adequately; taste before serving.
– Use a good quality beef broth for better flavor.
– Don’t rush the cooking time; let it simmer for best results.
Helpful Tips
– For extra flavor, add a bay leaf during cooking.
– Thicken the stew with a cornstarch slurry if desired.
– Use fresh herbs for garnish to enhance presentation.
– Experiment with spices like paprika or rosemary for variation.
– Keep the lid closed while cooking to maintain heat.
FAQs
Can I make crockpot beef stew without browning the meat?
Yes, you can skip browning, but it enhances the flavor. If time is short, just add everything directly to the crockpot.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free beef broth and ensure that any seasonings or sauces are gluten-free. This will keep the dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
What type of beef is best for stew?
Beef chuck is ideal for stew due to its marbling and tenderness after slow cooking. Other cuts like brisket or round can also work well.
Can I add wine to the stew?
Absolutely! Adding a cup of red wine can deepen the flavors. Just reduce the broth slightly to maintain the liquid balance.
How do I know when the beef is done?
The beef is done when it’s fork-tender and easily pulls apart. This usually takes about 6-8 hours on low heat.
Conclusion
Crockpot beef stew is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week. Embrace the ease of slow cooking and enjoy a delightful meal without the fuss!
Crockpot Beef Stew
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 medium carrots sliced
- 3 medium potatoes cubed
- 1 onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by preparing all your ingredients: chop the vegetables and cut the beef.
- In a skillet, brown the beef pieces on medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes.
- Transfer the browned beef to the crockpot.
- Add the sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic into the crockpot.
- In a bowl, mix the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the broth mixture over the ingredients in the crockpot.
- Stir gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
- Once cooked, check the seasoning and adjust if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
