Description
A hearty and flavorful slow cooker beef stew perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 1/2 pounds stew meat, use chuck or round cuts
- 1/21/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 1/21/2 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/21/2 teaspoon celery salt
- 1/4 cup flour, all-purpose
- 3–6 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons cold butter
- 2 cups yellow onions, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cabernet sauvignon or merlot
- 4 cups beef broth, good quality
- 2 beef bouillon cubes
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 5 medium carrots, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 lb. baby Yukon gold potatoes, halved or quartered
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 sprig rosemary
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup cold water + 3 tablespoons corn starch (optional)
- 2–3 drops Gravy Master (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: Start by searing the beef in a hot pan until it gets a nice brown crust. This will enhance the flavor and make the stew rich and hearty. Just be careful not to overcrowd the pan, or you will end up steaming instead of browning.
- Layer the Ingredients: Place the seared beef in the slow cooker, layering in any veggies you want, like carrots or potatoes. You will want to arrange everything evenly so those flavors mingle well during cooking. Missing this step can lead to uneven cooking, so do not skimp on the layering.
- Add Liquids and Seasoning: Pour in your beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and any desired seasonings to the slow cooker. You will notice the rich aroma starting to fill your kitchen. It is essential to add enough liquid to avoid burning, but not too much to drown the flavor.
- Set and Forget: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for about four hours. You have time to kick back while it simmers away. Just resist the urge to lift the lid too often, as this can let out heat and mess with the cooking time.
- Check the Consistency: When it is done, give the stew a gentle stir. You want to check if it is too thick or thin; this is your chance to adjust with cornstarch for thickness or broth if it seems too chunky. Waiting too long could lead to an overly thick stew that does not spoon easily.
- Finish with Butter: Just before serving, stir in a couple of tablespoons of cold butter for a silky texture. You will love how it adds a rich depth to the stew. It is easy to forget this step, but it makes a noticeable difference in the mouthfeel.
- Serve it Up: Ladle the stew into bowls, and dig in! The fragrant aroma and tender chunks of beef are so inviting. Just keep in mind portion sizes if you are being mindful—delicious does not have to mean excessive!
Notes
- Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Expert Tips: Handle the beef minimally for best juiciness. Swirl in 2 tablespoons of cold butter at the end for a velvety finish. Add optional vegetables for enhanced flavor and texture.
- Reheating Instructions: Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through. Ensure it reaches a minimum temperature of 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with warm biscuits or cornbread. Pair with a green salad for freshness. Offer over creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
- Recipe Variations: Add parsnips for a different flavor profile. Use sweet potatoes instead of Yukon Golds. Incorporate green beans for added texture.
- Ingredient Notes: Choose good-quality beef broth to enhance the flavor. Consider adding optional vegetables like parsnips, green beans, or sweet potatoes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 507
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 1035mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 49g
- Cholesterol: 132mg