Beef Stew Recipe Slow Cooker – Definitive Guide

If you’re looking for a comforting and hearty meal, a beef stew recipe slow cooker is an excellent choice. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed Sunday afternoon. Below is a simple yet flavorful recipe that you can customize to your liking.

Ingredients

• 1 large brown onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (or more to taste)
• 1 large carrot, chopped
• 3 large potatoes, diced
• 500 grams (about 1 pound) of diced beef
• Optional: 100 grams (about 3.5 ounces) of bacon, chopped (or substitute with mushrooms)
• 1 cup tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• 4 cups beef stock (or a mix of 2 cups beef stock and 2 cups red wine for added flavor)
• 1 teaspoon corn flour mixed with hot water (for thickening)

Instructions to Follow to Cook Beef Stew in Slow Cooker

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Start by chopping the onion, garlic, carrot, and potatoes into small pieces. The smaller the pieces, the better they will cook in the slow cooker.
2. Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: Place the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and potatoes into the slow cooker. Then, add the diced beef and bacon (if using).
3. Incorporate Sauces and Seasoning: Pour in the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce. Add freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
4. Add Liquid: Pour in the beef stock (or your preferred mix of stock and wine). This will create a rich base for your stew.
5. Thicken the Stew: Finally, mix the corn flour with hot water and add it to the slow cooker. This will help thicken the sauce as it cooks.
6. Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid. You have two cooking options:
   • Low setting: Cook for about 5 to 6 hours.
   • High setting: Cook for about 2 to 3 hours.
     Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
7. Serve: Once cooked, check that the meat is tender and vegetables are soft. The stew will thicken as it cools slightly. Serve hot with crusty bread, rice, or pasta for a complete meal.

Tips for Customization

This basic beef stew recipe slow cooker can be easily customized:

• Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or green beans.
• Herbs: Add herbs such as thyme or rosemary for additional flavor.
• Spices: Experiment with spices like paprika or bay leaves for a unique twist.

Conclusion

This easy slow cooker beef stew is a fantastic way to enjoy a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With minimal effort and simple ingredients, you can create a dish that warms both body and soul. Try this beef stew recipe slow cooker today, and you may find it becoming a staple in your household!