Contents
Introduction
Crock pot beef stew is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for chilly days or when you want to enjoy a warm, satisfying meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. This recipe combines tender beef, a medley of vegetables, and a rich broth, all cooked slowly to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, making this stew an ideal choice for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Beef chuck – 2 lbs, cut into 1-inch cubes
Carrots – 4, peeled and sliced
Potatoes – 4 medium, peeled and diced
Onion – 1 large, chopped
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Beef broth – 4 cups
Tomato paste – 2 tablespoons
Worcestershire sauce – 2 tablespoons
Dried thyme – 1 teaspoon
Salt – to taste
Pepper – to taste
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Cornstarch – 2 tablespoons (optional, for thickening)
Water – enough to combine with cornstarch (if using)
Prep Time
The prep time for this delicious crock pot beef stew is approximately 15-20 minutes. This includes chopping the vegetables, cubing the beef, and gathering all the ingredients needed for the recipe.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time for this beef stew is 6-8 hours on low heat or 3-4 hours on high heat in the crock pot. The total time, including prep, is about 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. This recipe yields approximately 6-8 servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or for enjoying leftovers throughout the week.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by chopping all the vegetables, including carrots, potatoes, and onions, into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add a bit of oil and brown the bite-sized beef stew meat. This should take about 5-7 minutes until all sides are nicely browned.
Step 3: Transfer to Crock Pot
Once the beef is browned, transfer it to the crock pot.
Step 4: Add Vegetables and Seasoning
Add the chopped vegetables to the crock pot alongside the beef. Then sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and any other preferred seasoning over the mixture.
Step 5: Pour in Broth
Pour in beef broth over the ingredients in the crock pot until everything is just covered.
Step 6: Cover and Cook
Put the lid on the crock pot and set it to low or high depending on your available cook time. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
Step 7: Thicken the Stew (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker stew, mix cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the stew about 30 minutes before serving.
Step 8: Serve
Once cooking is complete, stir the stew and serve it hot. Enjoy with crusty bread or over rice if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Vegetable Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or green beans to customize your stew.
Note 2: Meat Options
You can substitute the beef with other types of meat such as chicken or pork, adjusting the cooking time as necessary.
Note 3: Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Note 4: Freezing
This stew freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Note 5: Gluten-Free Option
Ensure that the beef broth and other ingredients used are gluten-free if you are cooking for someone with gluten intolerance.
Cook techniques
Using a Crock Pot
Cooking beef stew in a crock pot allows for a slow and even cooking process, resulting in tender meat and well-developed flavors. Simply add all ingredients to the pot, set it on low or high, and let it do the work.
Browning the Meat
Before placing the beef in the crock pot, browning it in a skillet enhances the depth of flavor. This step caramelizes the meat, creating a rich base for the stew.
Layering Ingredients
When adding ingredients to the crock pot, layer them strategically. Start with root vegetables at the bottom, followed by the meat, and then cover with broth and seasonings to ensure everything cooks evenly.
Thickening the Stew
To achieve a thicker consistency in your stew, you can remove a cup of the liquid towards the end of cooking and mix it with a cornstarch slurry before adding it back in. This will give the stew a richer texture.
Tasting and Adjusting Seasoning
Before serving, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning as needed. Adding salt or pepper at this stage allows you to enhance the overall flavor and make it just right.
FAQ
Can I use frozen beef for this stew?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but it’s recommended to thaw it first for more even cooking and better flavor absorption.
How long should I cook the stew in the crock pot?
Cooking times vary; typically, on low setting it takes about 6-8 hours, whereas on high it takes about 4-5 hours.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! You can customize your stew by adding other vegetables such as peas, green beans, or bell peppers according to your preference.
Is it necessary to sear the beef before adding it to the crock pot?
While not necessary, searing the beef adds depth and richness to the stew’s flavor.
Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Yes, beef stew can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a few days. It also freezes well, allowing for convenient meals later.
Conclusion
The crock pot beef stew is a hearty and flavorful meal that is perfect for any occasion. Its simple preparation and the ability to let the slow cooker do the work make it a great choice for busy days. This stew can be customized with various vegetables and seasonings, making it versatile and enjoyable for everyone.
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