Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe
A comforting slow-cooked beef stew with tender chunks of meat, hearty vegetables, and a rich, savory sauce that's perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
Beef and Vegetables
- 2 pounds Beef chunks Choose well-marbled stew meat for tenderness.
- 4 medium Potatoes, diced Yukon gold potatoes hold their shape well.
- 3 medium Carrots, sliced
- 1 medium Onion, chopped
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
Broth and Flavorings
- 2 tablespoons Tomato paste Adds richness and a subtle tang.
- 4 cups Beef broth Deep, savory foundation for the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce Adds umami flavor.
- 2 bay leaves Bay leaves Provides flavor depth.
- 1 teaspoon Thyme, dried
- 1 teaspoon Parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Thickening and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons Cornstarch or flour To thicken the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil For browning the beef.
- 2 tablespoons Butter For browning the beef and enhancing flavor.
- to taste Salt Always the finishing touch.
- to taste Pepper Always the finishing touch.
---Advertisement---
Instructions
Preparation
- Sear the beef in a skillet with olive oil and butter until golden on all sides.
- Add onion, garlic, and tomato paste; sauté until fragrant.
Slow Cooking
- Transfer to the slow cooker. Add potatoes, carrots, beef broth, herbs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Cook on low for 7–8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours.
Thickening
- Stir in a cornstarch slurry (or a spoon of flour mixed with water) and cook another 15–20 minutes.
Serving
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley and enjoy with crusty bread or over creamy mashed potatoes.
---Advertisement---
Note
For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of butter before serving. The stew tastes even better the next day.