Crock Pot Beef Stew is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for chilly days when you crave something warm and hearty. This slow-cooked stew is rich in flavors, thanks to the slow melding of tender beef chunks, robust root vegetables, and aromatic herbs and spices in a thick, savory broth. The beauty of using a crock pot is the minimal effort involved—simply prepare your ingredients, place them in the pot, and let time do the rest. The low and slow cooking process not only enhances the depth of flavor but also ensures that the beef becomes delightfully tender. Whether served with a slice of crusty bread or over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, this beef stew promises to satisfy and comfort in every bite.
Recipe: Crock Pot Beef Stew
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Optional: 1/2 cup red wine
Instructions:
- Prep the Beef:
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and pepper. Toss the beef cubes in the flour mixture until they are well coated.
- Brown the Beef:
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the beef in batches and cook until all sides are nicely browned. Transfer the browned beef to the crock pot.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic, and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. If using, deglaze the pan with red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add this mixture to the crock pot.
- Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot:
- To the crock pot, add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir to combine. Add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and celery.
- Cook:
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the beef is very tender.
- Finish the Stew:
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the frozen peas to the stew. Remove the bay leaf. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
- Serve:
- Serve the beef stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Crock Pot Beef Stew is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience, ideal for relaxing weekends or even busy weekdays. Each ingredient slowly releases its best flavors and textures, culminating in a dish that feels like a warm hug. Enjoy it on its own or as a fulfilling main course that brings comfort with every spoonful.
