Slow Cooked Beef Stew

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🥘 Slow Cooked Beef Stew

📖 Description

Slow Cooked Beef Stew is a hearty, comforting dish made by gently simmering tender beef chunks with vegetables, herbs, and a rich broth over several hours. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to deepen while transforming tougher cuts of beef into melt-in-your-mouth perfection. Ideal for cold days, family dinners, or meal prep.

⏱️ Cooking Time

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes

  • Cook Time: 6–8 hours (slow cooker) or 3–4 hours (stovetop)

  • Total Time: Up to 8 hours 20 minutes

🍽️ Servings

  • Serves: 4–6 people

🧾 Ingredients

For the stew:

  • 900 g (2 lb) beef chuck, cut into 1½-inch cubes

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 large onion, chopped

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 3 carrots, sliced

  • 3 potatoes, diced

  • 2 celery stalks, sliced

  • 2 tbsp tomato paste

  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

  • 3 cups beef broth

  • 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute broth)

  • 2 bay leaves

  • 1 tsp dried thyme (or 2 sprigs fresh)

  • 1 tsp dried rosemary

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional additions:

  • Mushrooms

  • Peas (added at the end)

  • Worcestershire sauce (1 tbsp for depth)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

  1. Pat beef dry and season with salt and pepper.

  2. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.

  3. Brown beef in batches until deeply seared. Transfer to slow cooker.

Step 2: Build Flavor

  1. In the same pan, sauté onions for 3–4 minutes until soft.

  2. Add garlic and tomato paste; cook 1 minute.

  3. Sprinkle in flour and stir well.

Step 3: Deglaze & Combine

  1. Pour in wine (if using) and scrape up browned bits.

  2. Add broth, herbs, and bay leaves.

  3. Transfer mixture to slow cooker.

Step 4: Slow Cook

  1. Add carrots, potatoes, and celery.

  2. Cover and cook:

  • Low: 7–8 hours

  • High: 4–5 hours

Step 5: Finish

  1. Remove bay leaves.

  2. Adjust seasoning and add peas if using.

  3. Serve hot.

📝 Notes

  • Beef chuck is ideal due to its marbling and tenderness after slow cooking.

  • The stew thickens naturally as it cooks; mash a few potatoes if you want extra thickness.

  • Flavor improves the next day—perfect for leftovers.

💡 Tips for Best Results

  • Always brown the beef for deeper flavor.

  • Cut vegetables evenly for consistent cooking.

  • Avoid lifting the lid during cooking—it releases heat.

  • For extra richness, stir in a knob of butter before serving.

🥦 Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 420 kcal

  • Protein: 35 g

  • Fat: 18 g

  • Carbohydrates: 30 g

  • Fiber: 5 g

  • Sodium: 780 mg

(Values vary based on ingredients used)

🌱 Health Benefits

  • High in Protein: Supports muscle repair and satiety

  • Rich in Iron & Zinc: Boosts energy and immune health

  • Vegetable-Packed: Provides fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants

  • Slow Cooking: Preserves nutrients and enhances digestibility

❓ Questions & Answers

Q: Can I make this without a slow cooker?
A: Yes. Simmer gently on the stovetop for 3–4 hours, stirring occasionally.

Q: Can I freeze beef stew?
A: Absolutely. Cool completely, store in airtight containers, and freeze up to 3 months.

Q: What can I use instead of wine?
A: Substitute extra beef broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth.

Q: How do I make it gluten-free?
A: Skip the flour or use cornstarch or gluten-free flour.

Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Yes—parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes work well.

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