Beef stew is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for chilly days or anytime you crave a wholesome meal. This recipe yields a delicious stew packed with tender beef and flavorful vegetables, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch pieces
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 4 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 stalk celery, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 large bay leaf
Directions:
- Place the beef stew meat in the slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the meat and stir until the meat is evenly coated.
- Add the beef broth, sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onion, chopped celery, Worcestershire sauce, ground paprika, minced garlic, and bay leaf to the slow cooker. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook the stew until the beef is tender enough to cut with a spoon. Cook on Low for 8 to 12 hours, or on High for 4 to 6 hours.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, you can brown the beef cubes in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. You can add more salt, pepper, or spices if desired.
- Feel free to add other vegetables such as peas or green beans for variation.
- Serve the beef stew hot with crusty bread or over cooked rice for a satisfying meal.
Conclusion:
This beef stew recipe is simple to prepare and results in a hearty and comforting dish that the whole family will love. With tender beef and a medley of vegetables simmered in flavorful broth, it’s a perfect meal for any occasion. Enjoy the warmth and goodness of homemade beef stew!
1. Can I use a different cut of beef for this stew?
- Yes, you can experiment with different cuts of beef based on your preference. However, it’s recommended to choose a cut that is suitable for slow cooking and becomes tender after a long cooking time.
2. Can I prepare the beef stew in advance and reheat it later?
- Absolutely! In fact, many find that the flavors of the stew develop even more if it’s made ahead of time. Simply refrigerate the stew in an airtight container and reheat on the stove or in the microwave when ready to serve.
3. Are there any substitutes for certain vegetables in the recipe?
- Certainly! Feel free to customize the vegetable mix based on your liking. You can add green beans, peas, or even mushrooms. Just ensure that the vegetables you choose have a similar cooking time to avoid overcooking or undercooking.
4. Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
- Yes, you can adapt the recipe for stovetop or oven cooking. For stovetop, simmer the stew on low heat, covered, for a few hours until the beef is tender. If using the oven, transfer the ingredients to a covered oven-safe dish and cook at a low temperature until the meat is fork-tender. Adjust cooking times accordingly.