RECIPE FOR BEEF STEW COOKED IN SLOW COOKER
Here’s a simple and hearty slow cooker beef stew recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds (900g) beef stew meat (such as Braised Beef), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (1 litre) beef broth
- 1 cup (240ml) red wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 1 cup (150g) frozen peas
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef: Season the beef stew meat with salt and pepper. If you prefer a richer flavour, you can brown the beef in a skillet over medium-high heat before adding it to the slow cooker. This step is optional but adds depth to the stew.
- Combine Ingredients: Place the beef, potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic into the slow cooker.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using). Add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaf. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef and vegetables are tender.
- Thicken the Stew (Optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of flour with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the stew about 30 minutes before serving and cook on high until thickened.
- Add Peas: About 15 minutes before serving, add the frozen peas to the stew and stir.
- Serve: Remove the bay leaf, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed, and serve hot.
Enjoy your comforting slow cooker beef stew!