Crock Pot Stew

You'll want to toss the beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions into your trusty crock pot. Then, you'll need to pour in the beef broth and red wine until everything's just covered. Don't forget to season it up with salt, pepper, and any other spices you fancy. Now, set it and forget it – this stew's gonna simmer for hours, filling your kitchen with the most mouthwatering aromas. Just wait until you dig into the tender, flavor-packed results.

History

Although the exact origins of the crock pot stew are unclear, it's believed to have emerged as a popular dish in the mid-20th century.

The dish's rise in popularity coincided with the increasing availability of crock pots, which allowed home cooks to prepare hearty, slow-cooked meals with minimal effort.

The versatility of the crock pot, combined with the accessibility of the dish's core ingredients, such as beef, potatoes, and carrots, contributed to its widespread adoption.

Over time, variations emerged, incorporating diverse cooking methods and ingredient origins, further solidifying the crock pot stew's status as a beloved and adaptable comfort food.

Recipe

Crock pot stews are a comforting and easy way to prepare a hearty meal. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or to feed a crowd.

Using a crock pot, or slow cooker, guarantees that the tougher cuts of meat become tender and the vegetables are perfectly cooked. With minimal prep work, you can come home to a delicious stew waiting for you.

2 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
3 carrots, peeled and sliced
1 onion, chopped
2 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Add all the ingredients to a crock pot and stir to combine. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

Before serving, remove the bay leaves. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

This crock pot stew is even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop. Serve with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a complete and comforting meal.

Nutritional Guide

This crock pot stew provides a hearty and satisfying meal with a balanced nutritional profile. A single serving contains approximately 350 calories, with a macronutrient breakdown of 40g carbohydrates, 25g protein, and 12g fat.

The combination of lean beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions offers a wealth of essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Beef is an excellent source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins, while the vegetables contribute antioxidants and phytonutrients.

This well-rounded dish supports overall health by providing a diverse array of beneficial nutrients. Portion control is key, as this stew can be quite filling due to the fiber and protein content.