Looking for a warm and satisfying meal for the chilly evenings? Slow Cooker Beef Stew might be your perfect solution! This dish is not only easy to prepare but also fills your home with a delightful aroma. But how do you make this comfort food that’s both delicious and effortless?
The key to a great Slow Cooker Beef Stew lies in the ingredients and preparation. Start with quality stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes. Season it with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and coat it in flour for that extra thick gravy. Vegetables like baby red potatoes, carrots, onions, and celery add to the heartiness of the stew. Brown the meat in olive oil before adding it to the slow cooker to enhance the flavor.
Layer your vegetables at the bottom of a 5-qt. slow cooker, then add the browned meat. Combine tomatoes, broth, mustard, and seasonings like thyme, salt, and pepper, and pour this over the meat and vegetables. Cooking it on a low setting for about 8-9 hours or on high for 4-5 hours will result in tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef and a stew that’s rich in flavor.
Don’t forget the final touch – stir in some peas before serving. This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is best enjoyed with crusty bread or homemade dinner rolls, perfect for sopping up the delicious gravy. With a prep time of around 30 minutes and a cook time that’s mostly hands-off, this stew is ideal for busy days.
For more detailed recipes and variations, you can visit Damn Delicious, The Recipe Critic, Allrecipes, Taste of Home, and Spend With Pennies. Each of these sites offers a unique take on this classic comfort food, ensuring you’ll find the perfect recipe to suit your taste.
So, why wait? Get your slow cooker out and start prepping for a cozy and comforting meal that’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!