Crockpot Stew: Beef and Potatoes Recipe
A crockpot stew featuring beef and potatoes is a hearty and comforting dish that's perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. This slow-cooked recipe allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in tender beef and flavorful potatoes. Here’s how to prepare this delicious crockpot stew:
1. Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) stew beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups (480ml) beef broth
- 1 cup (240ml) red wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
2. Instructions:
1. Prepare Ingredients:
- Cut the stew beef into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- Peel and cube the potatoes, slice the carrots, dice the onion, and mince the garlic.
2. Layer Ingredients in Crockpot:
- Place the seasoned beef, potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic in the crockpot.
- Add the beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
3. Cooking Time:
- Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef and vegetables are tender.
4. Optional Thickening:
- If desired, mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry.
- Stir the slurry into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken the broth.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Discard the bay leaf before serving.
- Serve the crockpot stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
3. Tips for Success:
- Choose the Right Cut: Use a tougher cut of beef suitable for slow cooking, such as chuck or stew meat.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
- Add Variations: You can customize the stew by adding additional vegetables like peas or mushrooms.
- Serve with: Enjoy the stew with crusty bread or over cooked rice for a complete meal.
4. Conclusion:
This crockpot stew with beef and potatoes is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this hearty stew will satisfy your taste buds and warm your soul with each delicious bite.