Description

If you're looking for a comforting, hearty meal that you can enjoy on repeat, this Slow Cooker Beef Stew is the perfect dish. It’s rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. Tender beef, fresh vegetables, and a savory broth come together in the slow cooker to create a meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you're preparing dinner for the family or simply want something you can make ahead and enjoy throughout the week, this slow cooker stew is guaranteed to become a favorite

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef stew meat (cut into 1-2 inch cubes)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 large carrots, sliced
• 4 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparation Method

Step 1: Coat the beef
Start by placing 2 pounds of beef stew meat into a large bowl. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour over the beef, and toss until the meat is evenly coated. The flour will help thicken the stew as it cooks and create a delicious crust on the beef when browned.

Step 2: Brown the beef (optional but recommended)
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the floured beef cubes to the skillet and brown them on all sides. This step is optional but highly recommended for adding extra flavor to the stew. Once browned, transfer the beef to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Add the vegetables
To the slow cooker, add 4 sliced carrots, 4 diced potatoes, 1 chopped onion, and 3 minced garlic cloves. These vegetables will cook down in the slow cooker, soaking up all the delicious flavors of the broth and beef.

Step 4: Prepare the broth
In a medium bowl, whisk together 4 cups of beef broth, 1 cup of red wine (if using), 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. This mixture will create a rich, flavorful base for the stew. Pour the broth mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker.

Step 5: Season the stew
Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary, and 2 bay leaves to the slow cooker. Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste. These herbs will infuse the stew with a deep, savory flavor as it cooks slowly throughout the day.

Step 6: Cook the stew
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. The low and slow cooking process allows the beef to become incredibly tender, while the vegetables soften and absorb the flavors of the broth. The longer you let the stew simmer, the more the flavors will develop.

Step 7: Serve
Once the cooking time is complete and the stew is thickened to your liking, remove the bay leaves and give the stew a good stir. Serve the beef stew hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Enjoy it with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for an extra comforting meal

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip:
For an extra depth of flavor, you can add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a spoonful of Dijon mustard to the stew in the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will give the stew a tangy kick that perfectly complements the rich, savory flavors. You can also toss in a handful of frozen peas during the last 15 minutes of cooking to add a touch of sweetness and color.

Conclusion:
This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food, with tender beef, perfectly cooked vegetables, and a flavorful broth that will leave everyone at the table satisfied. It’s easy to prepare and makes for a perfect make-ahead meal that you can enjoy any day of the week. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a hearty, delicious stew that’s guaranteed to become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy!