Slow Cooker Cubed Beef Stew

When the chill of winter sets in, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of slow cooker cubed beef stew wafting through your home. This dish has become a household favorite for many, offering a warm and comforting meal that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also fills the kitchen with an inviting scent. The beauty of this stew lies in its uncomplicated preparation; it allows busy individuals to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Simply toss in cubed beef, fresh vegetables, and a medley of herbs into the slow cooker and let the magic happen.

Slow cooker cubed beef stew is revered for its rich flavors and versatility. Packed with tender meat and fresh ingredients, it can easily be customized to suit your palate. Whether you prefer a hint of spiciness or a more herbaceous note, this dish welcomes all modifications. Plus, the slow cooking process ensures that the meat becomes irresistibly tender, soaking up the rich broth and spices until every bite melts in your mouth. This ease of preparation and delightful outcome make it a go-to recipe for family gatherings and cozy dinners alike.

To elevate your slow cooker cubed beef stew experience, consider serving it with warm crusty bread or buttery mashed potatoes. These accompaniments not only complement the stew but also help soak up the flavorful broth, ensuring that no delicious spoonful is left behind. For an added touch, a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp garden salad can add a refreshing balance to the meal. With such delightful pairings, this hearty stew becomes the centerpiece of any comforting dinner.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds beef (chuck or stew meat)
• 4 medium peeled cubed potatoes
• 3 peeled carrots sliced
• 1 onion chopped
• 3 minced cloves of garlic
• Beef broth
• Dried thyme
• Dried rosemary
• Worcestershire Sauce
• Olive oil ( two tablespoons optional for browning beef)

Instructions:

For a more dense stew, add a cornstarch slurry constituting one tablespoon of cornstarch with two table spoons of water in the last thirty minutes of cooking.

If you are looking for added flavor, then you can try browning the beef. To do this, heat a pan on medium and cook the cubed beef with olive oil for 5 minutes. However, if you do not want that, simply follow the next steps.

Slice onion, peel potatoes, and wash carrots. Put all three ingredients with garlic into a slow cooker along with beef. Grab a sprinkle of salt pepper, thyme, and rosemary and pour it in gingerly with Worcestershire sauce. Finally, pour the beef broth into the slow cooker letting it mix with everything together seamlessly.

Cook: For 7-8 hours on low heat or 4-5 hours on high heat, the slow cooker should have a lid placed on top so that the meat and the veggies are finished cooking for good.

Finishing Touches: Prior to serving, taste the stew and rectify any seasoning issues.

Tips for getting the most out of this recipe:

While this process is not compulsory, always sear the beef prior to placing it in the crockpot to increase the flavor profile.

For variation, additional vegetables can be added as well such as Carrots, Celery, Parsnips, or Peas.