Ah, Homemade Slow Cooker Beef Stew! This dish holds a special place in my heart—every time I make it, I’m reminded of chilly evenings spent gathered around the table with family, the aroma wafting through the air, and everyone’s face lighting up as they take that first bite. There’s something about this stew that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, don’t you think?
I remember the first time I tried making this stew after receiving my slow cooker as a gift. I was a novice in the kitchen, but boy, did I nail it! The way all those hearty ingredients simmered together created a symphony of flavors that danced on my palate. And the best part? Minimal effort for maximum cozy vibes! Let’s dive into this recipe that will surely become a staple in your kitchen.
What’s in Homemade Slow Cooker Beef Stew?
Beef Chuck: This cut of meat is perfect for slow cooking. It becomes wonderfully tender and juicy as it simmers away for hours.
Carrots: Freshly sliced, these vibrant orange beauties add a natural sweetness and a pop of color to the stew.
Potatoes: I love using hearty, starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russets. They soak up all the delicious flavors and add substance to the dish.
Sweet Peas: Whether fresh or frozen, peas bring a delightful burst of freshness to the stew and are a lovely contrast in color.
Onion and Garlic: The duo of onion and garlic forms the aromatic base for your stew, making the house smell divine while it cooks.
Beef Broth: This is the soul of the stew. I usually go for low-sodium beef broth to keep it flavorful yet healthy.
Tomato Paste: Just a couple of tablespoons adds depth and rich flavor that complements the beef perfectly.
Worcestershire Sauce: This secret ingredient elevates the umami level and gives the stew that just-right zing.
Dried Thyme and Rosemary: Fresh herbs are lovely, but dried herbs pack a punch too. They further enhance the flavor profile of the stew.
Bay Leaf: A must-have ingredient for slow-cooked dishes—just remember to remove it before serving!
Salt and Pepper: To taste! Seasoning is key, so don’t be shy.
Olive Oil: A little oil for browning the beef adds flavor and keeps the meat tender.
Is Homemade Slow Cooker Beef Stew Good for You?
Absolutely! This hearty stew offers a medley of nutritious ingredients.
Beef Chuck: Packed with protein and iron, it’s great for muscle repair and oxygen transport in the body. Just be mindful of portion sizes, especially if you’re watching your saturated fat intake.
Carrots and Potatoes: Both bring fiber and essential vitamins to the table. Carrots are known for their vision-boosting beta carotene, while potatoes are a great source of potassium.
Sweet Peas: These little green gems are not only colorful but high in vitamins A, C, and K, plus they offer plant-based protein.
And while this stew is wholesome, it’s always best to enjoy it in moderation if you’re watching your caloric intake or sodium levels.
Homemade Slow Cooker Beef Stew Ingredients List
– 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 4 medium carrots, sliced
– 4 medium potatoes, diced
– 1 cup sweet peas (fresh or frozen)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 3 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning)
*This recipe serves about 6 people, perfect for a family dinner or leftovers for lunches!*
How to Make Homemade Slow Cooker Beef Stew?
1. **Brown the Beef**: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Add the beef to the skillet in batches (don’t crowd them!) and brown on all sides. Once browned, transfer the beef to your slow cooker.
2. **Prepare the Vegetables**: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and the onion is translucent. Transfer this tasty mixture to the slow cooker.
3. **Add the Root Vegetables**: Now, toss in those sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and sweet peas right into the slow cooker. You’re building up a delicious base!
4. **Mix the Sauce**: In a separate bowl, combine the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well and pour it over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker.
5. **Cook**: Set your slow cooker to low and cook for about 8 hours, or on high for 4 hours. We’re looking for tender beef and cooked veggies.
6. **Thicken the Gravy (Optional)**: If you like a thicker gravy, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
7. **Serve**: Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf! Ladle the stew into bowls, and enjoy this wonderful dish paired with some crusty bread for dipping. You’ll be in comfort food heaven.
Craft Your Masterpiece with These Tips!
– This stew shines when paired with a robust piece of sourdough or a warm baguette—perfect for sopping up every last drop.
– Add a splash of red wine to your sauce mix for an adult touch that enriches the flavor.
– Feel free to get creative with the veggies! Celery, green beans, or even a handful of mushrooms would work beautifully.
– Got leftovers? They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for a future cozy meal.
There you have it—the recipe that warms both your heart and your home. I can’t wait for you to try this Homemade Slow Cooker Beef Stew! I’d love to hear how it turns out for you—don’t be shy, send me a message or share your experience! Happy cooking!
