Beef Stew Slow Cooker
Beef Stew in the Slow Cooker Recipe by Best Online Steaks
Beef has always been one of the most popular types of meat for hundreds of years thanks to its versatility and ease of access. A favorite since pioneers headed to the West is beef stew. Slow cooker beef stew is one way busy modern families can enjoy the dish.
Ingredients and Directions for Beef Stew Cooked in the Crock Pot
Ingredients
2 lbs. beef chuck (cut into 1 to 1 ½ inch chunks)
1/3 cup of AP (all-purpose) flour, and additional for coating
1 tsp paprika (smoked is a nice option), add more if you’re a big fan
Salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
3-4 tbsp olive oil
1 lb of baby potatoes (mixed red and white or just white)
1/2 lb of your favorite mushrooms, halved
1 cup red wine (dry or sweet will do)
1 medium white or yellow onion, chopped
3-4 medium carrots, washed not shaved and cut into 1-inch chunks
2 cups low-sodium beef broth
3 sprigs fresh thyme (tied together with twine)
1/2 cup chopped parsley, loosely packed
Directions
1. In a large bowl mix paprika, 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of pepper and flour. Add the beef and toss it around with your hands. Remove the meat shaking off any excess flour.
2. In a sizable non-stick skillet heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil at medium heat. Brown the beef without moving it about in the pan, approximately 3 to 4 minutes (this could remove the flour mixture from the meat). As each side of the beef browns, turn it until it is almost entirely brown.
3. Remove the beef and put it in a 6-quart slow cooker. Do not transfer the remaining juices.
4. In the skillet add 1 tablespoon of the oil and warm over medium heat. Add in the tomato paste stirring until the color is brick-red, approximately 1 minute.
5. Add the remaining flour and wine whisking while it begins to thicken. A few lumps are to be expected.
6. Pour in the beef broth, thyme, a bit of pepper and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Bring to a simmer while whisking. Continue the whisking while simmering for 4 to 5 minutes or until the gravy is thick and velvety.
7. Add the potatoes and chopped carrots to the beef in the slow cooker. Carefully pour the gravy into the slow cooker on top of the meat and vegetables. Cook covered on low for 8 hours or until meat and vegetables are tender.
8. Serve the stew in bowls with salt, pepper, paprika, and parsley to taste.
Additional References