Are you ready to warm up with a delicious bowl of slow-cooked goodness? Look no further than this mouthwatering Slow Cooker Beef Stew. Packed with tender beef, golden potatoes, carrots, peas, red wine, onions, garlic, and a hearty beef broth, this recipe is the ultimate comfort food for the fall and winter seasons. Serve it with warm biscuits, cornbread, or even over mashed potatoes for a truly satisfying meal.
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Who doesn’t love a hearty bowl of rich and flavorful beef stew? It’s a traditional dish that warms the soul during the colder months. After years of experimenting with different variations, I can confidently say that this version is the best ever.
All the ingredients in this recipe complement each other perfectly, with no overpowering flavors. Let’s dive into everything you need to know, from the best cuts of beef to use and the best potatoes for stew, to pro tips and storage.
How to Make It
- Cut the meat into 1-inch cubes and discard any large pieces of fat. Season the beef with pepper, garlic salt, and celery salt. Toss to coat. Sprinkle flour over the meat and toss again. Sear the meat in batches for 45 seconds per side and transfer to the slow cooker.
- Melt 1 tablespoon of butter and soften the onions and garlic in the same pot, scraping up any meat remnants. Add a splash of wine to help loosen if necessary. Transfer to the slow cooker.
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Add all the remaining ingredients except for the peas, corn starch, and 2 tablespoons of cold butter. Heat on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the vegetables are softened and the potatoes are fork-tender.
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Add the peas during the last 15 minutes of cooking. To thicken the stew, combine 1/4 cup cold water and 3 tablespoons of corn starch, then slowly stir it into the broth. The stew will continue to thicken upon standing. Turn off the heat and remove the bay leaves and rosemary stem. Finally, add browning and seasoning sauce.
Best Beef for Stew
When it comes to choosing the best beef for stew, chuck roasts are the top choice. They have connective tissue that makes them more tender and are also less expensive than other cuts. Other options include rump roasts and bottom rounds.
Best Potatoes to Use
For a stew that holds up well during cooking, use Yukon Gold and red potatoes. They have less starch content compared to russet potatoes, which tend to fall apart and break down into the stew.
Searing the Meat
Searing the beef before slow cooking adds color, flavor, and texture to the stew. It also creates a flavorful base by softening the onions and garlic. After searing, transfer any meat remnants to the slow cooker for the ultimate flavor infusion. Remember to sear the meat just long enough to give it a crisp exterior, without cooking it all the way through.
Can You Put Raw Beef in the Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can put raw beef directly into the slow cooker if you don’t have time to sear it. Simply toss it in the flour mixture and place it in the slow cooker along with the uncooked onions and garlic.
Red Wine Substitute
If you prefer not to use red wine, you can substitute an equal amount of beef broth or red grape juice along with 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar. The acidity helps to break down and tenderize the meat. For an Irish twist on the recipe, use 1 cup of extra stout Guinness instead of wine.
Pro Tips
- Handle the beef with care to ensure juicy and tender results. Minimize handling to prevent the juices from running out, which can make the meat tough.
- Swirl in 2 tablespoons of cold butter at the end for a smooth and velvety finish. This technique, known as “Monter au beurre,” adds richness and depth to the stew.
- Optional ingredients to enhance the flavors include celery, green beans, parsnips, and sweet potatoes.
- This recipe can be found in “The Cozy Cookbook” on page 47!
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
What to Serve with Beef Stew
To complete your meal, consider serving the beef stew with cornbread, easy buttermilk biscuits, Paula Deen’s corn casserole, mashed potatoes, copycat Texas Roadhouse rolls, or Cheddar Bay biscuits. These side dishes pair perfectly with the rich and hearty flavors of the stew.
Try These Next
If you enjoyed this slow cooker beef stew recipe, here are a few more delicious options for you to try:
- Crock Pot Roast: Discover another fantastic slow cooker recipe that will impress your taste buds.
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FAQs
Can I add other vegetables to the stew?
Yes, you can customize your beef stew by adding additional vegetables such as celery, green beans, parsnips, or sweet potatoes. Feel free to experiment and create a stew that suits your taste preferences.
How long can I store the leftovers?
You can refrigerate the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. Make sure to label and date the container for easy identification.
With this Slow Cooker Beef Stew recipe, you can savor a comforting and flavorful meal with minimal effort. The tender meat, hearty vegetables, and rich broth are a delightful combination that will keep you coming back for more. So grab your slow cooker and get ready to enjoy this delicious and satisfying dish!
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