Beef Stew on High in Crock Pot: Easy and Flavorful Slow Cooker Recipe

Cooking beef stew on high in a crock pot is a convenient and delicious way to prepare a hearty meal with minimal effort. This slow cooker method allows the flavors to meld together while tenderizing the beef to perfection. Here’s a straightforward recipe and guide to making beef stew on high in your crock pot:

1. Ingredients You'll Need:

Gather these ingredients before you begin:

• 2 pounds of beef stew meat, cubed
• 4 cups of beef broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste (optional for added richness)

2. Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

• Beef: Season the cubed beef stew meat with salt and pepper.
• Vegetables: Chop the onion, carrots, and potatoes according to the instructions.

2. Layer in the Crock Pot:

• Place the seasoned beef stew meat at the bottom of the crock pot.
• Add chopped onion, sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and minced garlic on top of the beef.

3. Add Seasonings and Liquid:

• Sprinkle dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper over the vegetables.
• Pour beef broth into the crock pot. Add tomato paste if desired for a richer flavor.

4. Cook on High Heat:

• Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to cook on high heat for 4-5 hours. Cooking times may vary depending on your crock pot model and the size of the beef cubes.

5. Check for Doneness:

• Stir the stew occasionally if possible. The beef stew is ready when the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

6. Adjust Seasoning and Serve:

• Taste the beef stew and adjust seasoning if needed with more salt and pepper.
• Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

3. Tips for Perfect Beef Stew:

• Thickening: If you prefer a thicker stew, mix cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Variations: Customize your beef stew by adding additional vegetables such as celery or mushrooms, or experimenting with different herbs and seasonings.
• Leftovers: Beef stew often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Cooking beef stew on high in a crock pot is an excellent choice for busy days when you want a hearty and comforting meal ready by dinner time. Follow these steps and enjoy a delicious homemade beef stew with minimal preparation and maximum flavor.