Gabriella D'AgostinoCrock pot beef stew is a classic comfort food that is perfect for a cold winter day. It is easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences. This hearty stew is made with beef, vegetables, and a flavorful broth. The beef is cooked until it is fall-off-the-bone tender, and the vegetables are cooked until they are soft and flavorful. Crock pot beef stew is a great way to use up leftover beef and vegetables, and it is also a budget-friendly meal.
In addition to being delicious, crock pot beef stew is also a healthy meal. It is a good source of protein, vegetables, and fiber. The beef provides protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues. The vegetables provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which are important for overall health. The fiber in the vegetables helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied, and it can also help to regulate your blood sugar levels.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes on all sides.
- Transfer the beef to a crock pot.
- Add the onion, carrots, celery, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, red wine (if using), bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper to the crock pot.
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours.
- Serve the stew over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
Here are some tips for making the best crock pot beef stew:
Tips
-
1. Use a good quality beef.
The quality of the beef will have a big impact on the flavor of the stew. Look for a beef chuck roast that is well-marbled with fat.
-
2. Brown the beef before adding it to the crock pot.
This will help to develop the flavor of the stew.
-
3. Use a variety of vegetables.
The more vegetables you use, the more flavorful the stew will be. Some good choices for vegetables include carrots, celery, onions, potatoes, and green beans.
-
4. Use a good quality beef broth.
The beef broth will add flavor to the stew. Look for a beef broth that is low in sodium.
-
5. Cook the stew on low for 8-10 hours.
This will allow the beef to become tender and the flavors to meld.
-
6. Serve the stew over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
This will help to soak up the delicious broth.
-
7. Garnish the stew with fresh herbs.
This will add a pop of color and flavor to the dish.
-
8. Store the stew in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
The stew will thicken as it cools.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to thicken crock pot beef stew?
There are a few ways to thicken crock pot beef stew. One way is to add a cornstarch slurry. To make a cornstarch slurry, mix equal parts cornstarch and water. Add the cornstarch slurry to the stew and cook until thickened. Another way to thicken the stew is to add mashed potatoes. Mash the potatoes and add them to the stew. Stir until the stew has reached the desired consistency.
How can I make crock pot beef stew in the oven?
To make crock pot beef stew in the oven, preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the stew in a Dutch oven or other oven-safe pot. Cover the pot and bake for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
Can I freeze crock pot beef stew?
Yes, you can freeze crock pot beef stew. Let the stew cool completely. Place the stew in freezer-safe containers. Freeze the stew for up to 3 months.
How do I reheat crock pot beef stew?
To reheat crock pot beef stew, thaw the stew overnight in the refrigerator. Place the stew in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook the stew until heated through.
Crock pot beef stew is a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for a cold winter day. It is easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences. With its tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and rich broth, crock pot beef stew is sure to please everyone at the table.
Youtube Video:
