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.