Slow Cooker Beef Stew

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Slow Cooker Beef Stew (Using Raw Cubed Beef)

🥘 Description

This slow cooker beef stew is a comforting, hearty dish made by placing raw cubed beef directly into the slow cooker, along with vegetables, herbs, and a rich broth. The slow, gentle cooking makes the beef extremely tender, juicy, and flavorful without any need for browning beforehand. It’s perfect for busy days, family dinners, or meal prep.

⏱ Cooking Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cook Time:

    • Low: 7–8 hours

    • High: 4–5 hours

  • Total Time: Up to 8 hours

🍽 Servings

4–6 servings

🧾 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 900 g (2 lb) raw beef cubes (chuck or stewing beef)

  • 3 medium potatoes, peeled & cubed

  • 3 carrots, sliced

  • 1 onion, chopped

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids & Seasoning

  • 3 cups beef broth or stock

  • 2 tbsp tomato paste

  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tsp salt (or to taste)

  • 1 tsp black pepper

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • 1 tsp dried thyme

  • 1 bay leaf

Optional Add-ins

  • 1 cup mushrooms

  • ½ cup peas (add in last 30 minutes)

  • 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for thickening)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients:
    Chop all vegetables and cube beef if not already prepared.

  2. Layer in Slow Cooker:
    Add potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic to the bottom.
    Place raw beef cubes on top.

  3. Add Liquids & Seasoning:
    Pour broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce.
    Add all spices and bay leaf. Stir gently.

  4. Slow Cook:

    • LOW: 7–8 hours

    • HIGH: 4–5 hours

  5. Thicken (Optional):
    Mix cornstarch and water, stir into stew, cook 15–20 more minutes.

  6. Serve Hot:
    Remove bay leaf and serve warm with bread or rice.

🍲 Serving Suggestions

  • With naan, roti, or crusty bread

  • Over steamed rice or mashed potatoes

  • Alongside simple salad or yogurt raita

💡 Tips for Best Results

  • Use chuck beef or blade roast for best tenderness.

  • Cut beef into uniform cubes for even cooking.

  • Do not overfill the slow cooker (max ¾ full).

  • Add delicate veggies (peas, spinach) at the end.

  • For deeper flavor, you may brown beef first (optional).

🥗 Nutritional Information (Approx per serving)

  • Calories: 380–420 kcal

  • Protein: 32–35 g

  • Fat: 15–18 g

  • Carbohydrates: 25–30 g

  • Fiber: 4–5 g

  • Iron: 20% of daily value

❤️ Health Benefits

  • High protein: Supports muscle growth & repair

  • Iron-rich: Helps prevent anemia

  • Slow-cooked: Easier digestion

  • Vegetable-packed: Provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals

  • Low in processed ingredients: Healthy homemade meal

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (Q/A)

Q1: Can I put raw beef directly into the slow cooker?

Yes. Slow cookers are designed to safely cook raw meat.

Q2: Do I need to brown the beef first?

No. Browning adds flavor but is optional.

Q3: Why is my beef tough?

It needs more cooking time. Beef becomes tender after long slow cooking.

Q4: Can I freeze this stew?

Yes — store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Q5: Can I make this spicy?

Yes — add green chilies, chili flakes, or black pepper to taste.

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