Slow Cooker American Beef Stew

Hearty Harvest: Slow Cooker American Beef Stew!

As autumn leaves paint the landscape in vibrant hues, nothing warms the soul quite like a steaming bowl of classic American beef stew. This comforting dish, brimming with tender chunks of beef and colorful vegetables, is the perfect antidote to chilly evenings. What’s more, our slow cooker version makes preparation a breeze, allowing you to savor the anticipation as tantalizing aromas fill your home.

Imagine returning from a brisk walk to find dinner practically ready, with minimal effort on your part. This recipe combines the convenience of modern cooking techniques with the timeless flavors of a traditional beef stew. The slow cooking process ensures that every morsel of meat becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the vegetables absorb the rich, savory broth.

Beef stew has been a staple in American cuisine for generations, with roots tracing back to early settlers who adapted European recipes to New World ingredients. Our version stays true to these origins while incorporating a blend of herbs and spices that elevate the dish to new heights. Pair it with a rustic loaf of bread for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy even the heartiest appetites.

Slow Cooker American Beef Stew Recipe

Ingredients:

2 pounds beef chuck roast cut into 1-inch cubes

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 large onion diced

3 celery stalks chopped

4 carrots peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces

3 medium red potatoes peeled and cubed

2 cloves garlic minced

2 bay leaves

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

2 cups beef broth

1 cup red wine (optional)

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

2 cups water

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, toss the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes in batches, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.

3. In the same skillet, sauté the onions, celery, and garlic for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened. Add to the slow cooker or electric dutch oven (check cooking times).

4. Add the carrots, potatoes, bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary to the slow cooker.

5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Pour this mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.

6. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

7. Remove the bay leaves before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes:

• For a thicker stew, you can make a slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/4 cup of cold water. Stir this into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or peas for variety.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Information

Serving size: 1 cup (240g)

Calories: 350

Total Fat: 15g

Saturated Fat: 5g

Cholesterol: 70mg

Sodium: 600mg

Total Carbohydrates: 25g

Dietary Fiber: 3g

Sugars: 3g

Protein: 28g

Other Information

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 8-10 hours on low, 4-6 hours on high

Equipment: Slow cooker, large skillet

Estimated cost per serving: $2.50

Total cost for recipe (8 servings): $20

In Conclusion, Slow Cooker American Beef Stew

This classic American beef stew recipe showcases the convenience and flavor-enhancing benefits of slow cooking. By allowing the ingredients to simmer together for hours, you’ll create a rich, comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. The slow cooker method not only saves time but also ensures that every bite is infused with delicious, homestyle flavor.

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