Beef stew crock pot recipe

Imagine a hearty, comforting bowl of beef stew, simmered to perfection in your crock pot. This traditional recipe is a staple of many cuisines, offering a rich blend of flavors that evoke memories of cozy winter nights and family gatherings. The slow-cooked beef, tender potatoes, and carrots create a dish that is both nourishing and delicious. The addition of garlic, onions, and a hint of paprika adds depth to the broth, making each spoonful a delight. This crock pot beef stew is not just a meal; it’s an experience that warms both your belly and your heart.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 ½ cups beef broth
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
• ¾ cup frozen peas
• 2-3 teaspoons cornstarch (optional)
• 3 bay leaves (optional)
• Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat: In a large ziplock bag, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. Add the beef cubes and shake until they are evenly coated with the flour mixture.

2. Sear the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add half of the flour-coated beef cubes and sear until browned on all sides. Transfer the browned beef to the crock pot. Repeat with the remaining beef cubes.

3. Cook the Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Cook the diced onion until it is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Transfer the onion-garlic mixture to the crock pot.

4. Add Remaining Ingredients: Pour the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and any juices from the skillet into the crock pot. Add the bay leaves and any fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary if using.

5. Cook the Stew: Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.

6. Add Potatoes and Carrots: About 2 hours before serving, add the diced potatoes and sliced carrots to the crock pot. Stir gently to combine.

7. Thicken the Stew (Optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 2-3 teaspoons of cornstarch with a small amount of cold water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the stew and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.

8. Add Peas: If using frozen peas, add them to the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

9. Serve: Remove the bay leaves and serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Top Tips

1. Brown the Beef: Browning the beef before adding it to the crock pot enhances the flavor of the stew.
2. Use Quality Broth: Using high-quality beef broth is crucial for a rich and flavorful stew.
3. Don’t Overcrowd: Cook the beef in batches to ensure each piece is browned evenly.
4. Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary add a delightful aroma and flavor to the stew.
5. Thicken Wisely: If thickening the stew, start with a small amount of cornstarch to avoid making it too thick.
6. Deglaze the Pan: Use the juices from the skillet to deglaze the pan and add them to the crock pot for extra flavor.

Variations

1. Red Wine Addition: Add a cup of dry red wine to the beef broth for a more complex flavor profile.
2. Mushroom Addition: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions and garlic for added depth.
3. Peas and Carrots: Add fresh peas and carrots during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a burst of color and flavor.
4. Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
5. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour for the coating to accommodate dietary restrictions.
6. Tomato Paste: Add a tablespoon of tomato paste for a richer, more intense flavor.

Nutritional Guide

Additional Nutritional Notes: This recipe is relatively high in protein and moderate in fat, making it a satisfying meal. The potatoes and carrots provide a good source of complex carbohydrates. If you are watching your calorie intake, consider using leaner beef or reducing the amount of olive oil used for browning. This recipe is also versatile, allowing you to adjust the amount of ingredients based on your dietary needs and preferences.