Slow Cooker Beef Stew

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Delicious slow cooker beef stew with tender meat and vegetables

Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a heartwarming dish that captures the essence of comfort food. It brings together tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich flavors that meld beautifully over hours of slow cooking. Perfect for chilly nights or a wholesome family meal, this recipe will have everyone gathering around the table. Dive into the delights of this savory stew with your loved ones, and experience the aroma wafting through your home as it slowly comes together.

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 lbs (1.13 kg) chuck roast, trimmed of excess fat and diced into 1-1/2 inch (4 cm) cubes (about 2 lbs / 0.9 kg once trimmed)
  • 2 1/2 Tbsp (37.5 ml) olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped (1 1/2 cups / 225 g)
  • 3 medium celery stalks, chopped (1 1/4 cups / 150 g)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced (1 1/2 Tbsp / 22.5 g)
  • 1/4 cup (60 g) tomato paste
  • 3 cups (720 ml) low-sodium beef broth or chicken broth, divided
  • 1 Tbsp (15 ml) Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 Tbsp (15 ml) low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 Tbsp (15 g) minced fresh thyme (or 1 tsp / 5 g dried)
  • 1 (7-inch / 18 cm) single sprig rosemary (or 3/4 tsp / 2 g dried)
  • 1 1/2 lbs (680 g) yellow potatoes, diced into 1 1/2-inch (4 cm) chunks
  • 1 lb (450 g) carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) chunks (avoid thin carrots)
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp (12 g) cornstarch (adjust for thickness preference)
  • 1 1/2 cups (225 g) frozen petite peas
  • 1/4 cup (15 g) minced fresh parsley

Directions

  1. Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Working with half of the beef at a time, dab both sides dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper to taste.

  2. Sear the beef in the skillet until browned, turning once halfway through, about 4 – 5 minutes total. Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.

  3. Add an additional 1 Tbsp oil to the skillet and repeat with the remaining beef, then leave the excess oil in the skillet.

  4. Add the remaining 1/2 Tbsp oil to the oil in the skillet (there should be about 1/2 Tbsp left after searing the beef), and reduce the burner to medium heat. Sauté the onions and celery for 3 minutes, add the garlic, and sauté for another 30 seconds. Stir in the tomato paste and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.

  5. Pour 1 cup of beef broth into the skillet along with Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, thyme, and rosemary.

  6. Layer the diced potatoes and carrots over the beef in the slow cooker, then pour the broth mixture from the skillet into the slow cooker along with the remaining 2 cups of beef broth. Season lightly with salt and pepper (adjust to taste at the end).

  7. Cover and cook on low heat for 7 – 8 hours.

  8. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with 1 1/2 Tbsp of cold water until smooth. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker and gently stir. Cover and cook on high heat for 20 – 30 minutes until thickened slightly.

  9. Stir in the frozen peas and half of the minced parsley. Serve warm, garnished with the remaining parsley.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 7 – 8 hours
Total Time: 7 hours 20 minutes – 8 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Nutrition Info: Approx. 350 calories per serving (varies based on portion and specific ingredients used)

How to Serve

Slow Cooker Beef Stew is best served hot, straight from the cooker. You can accompany it with crusty bread for dipping, a side salad for freshness, or over a bed of fluffy rice for added heartiness. Garnishing with fresh parsley not only elevates the presentation but also adds a burst of flavor. Feel free to customize your serving preferences with your favorite condiments or sides!

FAQs

How do I store leftover Slow Cooker Beef Stew?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the stew for up to 3 months.

Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute chuck roast with other cuts like brisket or round roast, but cooking times may vary slightly.

Is it possible to make Slow Cooker Beef Stew without beef broth?
Absolutely! You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth as alternatives; just keep in mind that the flavor may change accordingly.

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