Crockpot Stew Meat and Potatoes: A Hearty and Easy Recipe

Crockpot stew meat and potatoes is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. This hearty dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, thanks to the convenience of a crockpot. In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of making stew in a crockpot, the ingredients you’ll need, step-by-step instructions, and tips for creating the perfect stew.

1. Why Make Stew Meat and Potatoes in a Crockpot?

Convenience

The crockpot allows you to prepare your ingredients, set the cooking time, and let the appliance do the work. It’s perfect for those with busy schedules who still want a home-cooked meal.

Flavor Development

Slow cooking enhances the flavors of the meat and vegetables, making the stew rich and deeply satisfying. The low and slow cooking method allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully.

Tender Meat

Cooking stew meat in a crockpot ensures that it becomes tender and juicy. The long cooking time breaks down the tough fibers in the meat, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Versatility

A crockpot stew is highly versatile. You can easily modify the recipe to include your favorite vegetables or spices, making it a dish that can be enjoyed in numerous variations.

2. Ingredients for Crockpot Stew Meat and Potatoes

To make a delicious crockpot stew meat and potatoes, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 2 pounds of stew meat: Beef chuck or round are great options.
  • 4 large potatoes: Peeled and cut into chunks.
  • 3 carrots: Peeled and sliced.
  • 1 onion: Chopped.
  • 3 cloves of garlic: Minced.
  • 4 cups of beef broth: Low sodium preferred.
  • 1 can of diced tomatoes: (14.5 oz) with juices.
  • 2 tablespoons of tomato paste:
  • 1 teaspoon of dried thyme:
  • 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary:
  • 1 bay leaf:
  • Salt and pepper: To taste.
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil:
  • 2 tablespoons of flour: (optional, for thickening)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by chopping the vegetables and cutting the stew meat into bite-sized pieces if not already done. This will make it easier to brown the meat and ensure even cooking.

2. Brown the Meat

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the stew meat and season with salt and pepper. Brown the meat on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Browning the meat adds depth of flavor to the stew.

3. Transfer to Crockpot

Once the meat is browned, transfer it to the crockpot. Add the chopped potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic.

4. Add the Liquids and Seasonings

Pour the beef broth and diced tomatoes (with juices) into the crockpot. Add the tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, and additional salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine all the ingredients.

5. Cook the Stew

Set the crockpot to low and cook for 7-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours. The stew is done when the meat is tender, and the vegetables are cooked through.

6. Optional Thickening

If you prefer a thicker stew, mix the flour with a small amount of water to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the crockpot in the last 30 minutes of cooking and stir well.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy it with crusty bread or over a bed of rice.

4. Tips for the Perfect Crockpot Stew

Choose the Right Meat

Opt for cuts of meat that are suitable for slow cooking, such as beef chuck or round. These cuts become incredibly tender when cooked low and slow.

Layer Ingredients Properly

Place root vegetables like potatoes and carrots at the bottom of the crockpot as they take longer to cook. Layer the meat and other vegetables on top.

Don’t Lift the Lid

Avoid lifting the lid during cooking as it releases heat and can extend the cooking time. Trust the process and let the crockpot do its job.

Adjust Seasonings

Taste the stew towards the end of the cooking time and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pot over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the consistency.

5. Conclusion

Crockpot stew meat and potatoes is a delicious, hearty dish that’s perfect for any time of the year. Its convenience, rich flavor, and tender meat make it a favorite among home cooks. By following these simple steps and tips, you can create a mouthwatering stew that your family will love. Enjoy the comforting taste of home-cooked goodness with minimal effort, thanks to your trusty crockpot.




Copyright © 2017