Crock Pot Beef Stew: Tender & Flavorful Recipe
There’s nothing more comforting and satisfying than a warm, hearty bowl of beef stew. The tender meat, coupled with the rich and flavorful sauce, makes it an ideal dish for any family meal, gathering, or special occasion. In this article, we will dive into the delicious world of Crock Pot beef stew and learn all about its history, cultural significance, and culinary tips. So, without further ado, let’s dig in.
Ingredients for Crock Pot Beef Stew
To create this mouthwatering dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 3 large carrots, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 4 medium potatoes, cubed
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe
After gathering your ingredients, follow this simple, step-by-step guide to create an amazing Crock Pot beef stew.
Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. Toss the beef cubes in this mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Set aside any excess flour mixture.
Step 2: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated beef cubes and brown them on all sides. This should take about 4-6 minutes in total. Once browned, transfer the beef to your Crock Pot.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until softened. Transfer these into the Crock Pot as well.
Step 4: Add the remaining dry flour mixture to the skillet and cook for 1 minute. Gradually stir in the beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables in the Crock Pot.
Step 5: Add the carrots, potatoes, and celery to the Crock Pot. Stir gently to combine all ingredients. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
Step 6: About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas. Season the stew with additional salt and pepper, to taste. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.
Origins and Curiosities of Beef Stew
The concept of stewing meat and vegetables in a pot dates back thousands of years and has been a culinary staple in nearly every culture. The word “stew” itself is thought to have originated from the old French term “estuver,” meaning to enclose in a vessel and cook.
In America, the concept of beef stew was brought over by European settlers, who had been making traditional meat and vegetable stews for centuries. Over time, it evolved into the dish we know today, with various regional variations based on local ingredients and preferences.
Beef stew is not only warm and comforting, but it can also be a budget-friendly meal. Many families rely on this dish as a way to stretch a smaller amount of meat with an abundance of vegetables, creating a delicious and filling meal to feed a crowd.
Today, beef stew is celebrated as a beloved comfort food in many countries and cultures, and the Crock Pot has made it easier than ever to prepare and enjoy this classic dish. With so many different recipes and variations, there’s a beef stew out there for everyone, making it an enduring culinary classic sure to please the taste buds of anyone who has the pleasure of trying it.
