Description

Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew originated from a time when families had to make do with what they had on hand, emphasizing an adaptability that many home cooks cherish even today. This hearty stew captures nostalgic flavors, bringing a comforting reminder of childhood and family dinners to your table. With succulent ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, it's no wonder this dish has stood the test of time.

To make this dish a complete meal, consider serving it with a loaf of crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the broth. Alternatively, add a fresh side salad or some steamed vegetables for a splash of color on your plate. This stew shines in its simplicity and versatility, making it suitable for various occasions, from hearty family dinners to casual gatherings with friends.

The ingredients come together to create a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The beef provides heartiness, while the vegetables add both nutrition and vibrant colors. Each ingredient plays a role, making this stew not only delicious but a great way to fill your plate with wholesome goodness.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 medium onion
• 2 medium carrots
• 4 medium russet potatoes
• 4 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 beef bouillon cubes
• 2 cups hot water
• 4 drops Worcestershire sauce

Preparation Method

To kick off the magic of this classic dish, start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. This step enhances the flavor and gives the meat a lovely sear. Once the ground beef is browned, transfer it into your slow cooker for the next steps.

Next, it’s time to prep your vegetables. Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Russet potatoes work beautifully in stews due to their ability to hold up during the cooking process. After the potatoes, move on to peeling and dicing the carrots. These little orange beauties not only add sweetness but also a nice pop of color to the stew, making it visually appealing.

Now that your vegetables are prepped, grab the onion. After peeling it, chop it into small pieces and add it to the slow cooker along with the diced potatoes and carrots.

With the base of your stew assembled, it’s time to add a few dry spices. Sprinkle the dried oregano, onion powder, and garlic powder over the ingredients in the slow cooker. These spices will steep into the broth, enriching the stew's flavor profile.

In a separate bowl or container, combine the tomato paste and hot water. Stir until they are well mixed together, creating a rich base for your stew. This is where the magic happens, as the tomato paste adds a depth of flavor to the dish. Crumble the beef bouillon cubes into this mixture and add the Worcestershire sauce. Stir until everything is completely dissolved.

Pour this tomato mixture over the contents in your slow cooker, ensuring to cover the meat and vegetables evenly. Then, give everything a gentle stir to combine all the ingredients.

It’s essential to make sure that the ingredients are well distributed. If it appears that the ingredients aren’t fully submerged in the liquid, add just a little more hot water until you have an even mixture.

Finally, turn your slow cooker to the low setting and let it do the magic for about seven hours. It’s a time to relax, enjoy your day, and await the delicious aroma that will begin filling your home.

As the stew approaches the end of its cooking time, you have an option if you prefer a thicker texture. You can mix two tablespoons of cornstarch with a small amount of water to create a slurry. Stir this slurry into the stew during the last thirty minutes of cooking for the perfect consistency.

Tips and Conclusion

Feel free to customize this recipe according to your preferences. Add additional vegetables that you enjoy, such as peas or green beans, or substitute the ground beef for turkey or even lentils for a vegetarian version. The beauty of Slow Cooker Poor Man's Stew lies in its adaptability—experiment with varying spices and seasonings to create your version.

If you're feeling adventurous, try including a splash of red wine in the cooking liquid. It will add depth and complexity to the dish, taking it to another level of flavor while also enhancing the stew's aroma.
Enjoy the Slow Cooker Poor Man's Stew as a satisfying main course, and don’t hesitate to make it your own with favorite spices or additional vegetables. This recipe yields a generous amount of stew, making it perfect for sharing or enjoying leftovers on those busy weeknights when you need something delicious and easy.

Embrace the simplicity of this classic dish, savoring each comforting spoonful that brings back memories of family gatherings and hearty meals. So, gather your loved ones around the table and dive into this delicious stew, knowing that comfort and nostalgia are just a bowl away. Indulge in this timeless recipe again and again—it’s guaranteed to bring joy and satisfaction to your dining experience!