Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs Beef Stew Meat (cubed): The star of the dish, beef stew meat should be well-marbled with fat for maximum flavor. As it cooks low and slow, the fat breaks down, resulting in tender, juicy beef chunks.
- 4 Carrots (sliced): Carrots add a subtle sweetness and vibrant color to the stew. They cook down beautifully in the slow cooker, absorbing the flavors of the broth while retaining a slight crunch.
- 4 Potatoes (diced): Potatoes add a starchy element that thickens the stew and provides heartiness. Choose waxy potatoes, like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, for a creamy texture after cooking.
- 1 Onion (chopped): Onions bring a savory depth to the stew and add a natural sweetness once caramelized during the slow cooking process.
- 3 cups Beef Broth: A rich, flavorful base for the stew, beef broth infuses the stew with savory depth. You can use homemade broth for an extra touch of richness or store-bought for convenience.
- 2 tbsp Tomato Paste: Tomato paste adds a tangy, slightly sweet note to balance the savory richness of the beef broth, while helping to thicken the stew slightly.
- 1 tsp Thyme: This earthy herb enhances the dish’s depth and complements the beef beautifully. Fresh thyme works well, but dried thyme is also a convenient alternative.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): These simple seasonings allow the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine while bringing balance to the dish.
Instructions
- 2 lbs Beef Stew Meat (cubed): The star of the dish, beef stew meat should be well-marbled with fat for maximum flavor. As it cooks low and slow, the fat breaks down, resulting in tender, juicy beef chunks.
- 4 Carrots (sliced): Carrots add a subtle sweetness and vibrant color to the stew. They cook down beautifully in the slow cooker, absorbing the flavors of the broth while retaining a slight crunch.
- 4 Potatoes (diced): Potatoes add a starchy element that thickens the stew and provides heartiness. Choose waxy potatoes, like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, for a creamy texture after cooking.
- 1 Onion (chopped): Onions bring a savory depth to the stew and add a natural sweetness once caramelized during the slow cooking process.
- 3 cups Beef Broth: A rich, flavorful base for the stew, beef broth infuses the stew with savory depth. You can use homemade broth for an extra touch of richness or store-bought for convenience.
- 2 tbsp Tomato Paste: Tomato paste adds a tangy, slightly sweet note to balance the savory richness of the beef broth, while helping to thicken the stew slightly.
- 1 tsp Thyme: This earthy herb enhances the dish’s depth and complements the beef beautifully. Fresh thyme works well, but dried thyme is also a convenient alternative.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): These simple seasonings allow the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine while bringing balance to the dish.
Notes
- Add Greens: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a burst of color and nutrition.
- Swap the Meat: While beef stew meat is traditional, you can also try this with pork or lamb for a different flavor profile. For a lighter version, use chicken thighs or turkey.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as parsnips, celery, or peas. These can be added in the last hour of cooking so they don’t overcook.
- Spicy Twist: If you like a bit of heat, add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes when adding the broth and seasonings.
- Wine: For a deeper flavor, consider adding 1/2 cup of red wine to the broth mixture. It will bring a beautiful depth of flavor to the stew.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7-8 hours
- Category: 6 servings