Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew

Finding a comforting dinner that practically makes itself can feel impossible, especially during those busy weeks when you’re juggling work, family, and social commitments. This Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew not only offers rich flavors but also allows you to set it and forget it. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this dish promises to satisfy with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply toss all the ingredients into your crockpot, and let it do the work for you.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of beef stock, herbs, and spices creates a stew packed with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: This recipe can be adapted with your favorite vegetables or served over rice or bread for added heartiness.
• Perfect for Leftovers: The stew tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.
• Comfort Food: Warm up on cold days with this hearty dish that feeds both body and soul.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything organized will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Crockpot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Crockpot: Allows for slow cooking, which enhances flavors while freeing up your time.
• Chef’s Knife: A good knife ensures precise chopping of vegetables and meat, making prep easier.
• Mixing Bowl: Useful for mixing seasonings or flour before adding ingredients to the crockpot.

Ingredients

For the Stew

• 2 ½ pounds of stew meat
• ½ teaspoon each of black pepper, garlic salt, and celery salt
• 1/4 cup flour
• 3-6 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons chilled butter (split)
• 2 cups chopped yellow onions
• 4 minced garlic cloves

Liquids & Flavor Enhancers

• 1 cup cabernet sauvignon or merlot apple vinegar
• 4 cups beef stock
• 2 beef bouillon cubes
• 2 tablespoons worcestershire sauce
• 3 tablespoons tomato concentrate

Vegetables

• 5 medium carrots, chopped into 1-inch pieces
• 1 pound baby yukon gold potatoes, halved or quartered
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 rosemary sprig
• 1 cup frozen peas

Thickening Agent (Optional)

• 1/4 cup cold water mixed with 3 tablespoons corn starch (optional)
• 2-3 drops gravy master (optional for a deeper color)

How to Make Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by chopping the vegetables.
1. Dice the yellow onions and mince the garlic cloves.
2. Chop the carrots into 1-inch pieces and halve or quarter the baby yukon gold potatoes.

Step 2: Sear the Meat (Optional)

For added flavor:
1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the stew meat with black pepper, garlic salt, and celery salt.
3. Dust lightly with flour.
4. Sear the meat until browned on all sides (about 5 minutes).

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Crockpot

1. Place seared meat in the crockpot if used; otherwise, add raw stew meat directly.
2. Add chopped onions, minced garlic, carrots, potatoes, bay leaves, rosemary sprig, frozen peas, and any remaining flour mixture.

Step 4: Add Liquid Ingredients

Pour in:
1. Apple vinegar,
2. Beef stock,
3. Worcestershire sauce,
4. Tomato concentrate,
5. Crumble in beef bouillon cubes.

Step 5: Cook on Low Heat

Set your crockpot:
1. Cook on low for about 7 hours or high for about 3 hours until meat is tender.

Step 6: Thicken (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker stew:
1. Mix cold water with corn starch to create a slurry.
2. Stir into stew during the last hour of cooking.

Enjoy your Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew hot from the pot!

How to Serve Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew

Serving Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew is all about creating a comforting meal experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this hearty dish.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked bread, like a sourdough or baguette, is perfect for soaking up the rich broth. Serve it warm alongside your stew for a cozy touch.

Over Rice

• A bed of fluffy rice enhances the flavors of the stew. Consider using jasmine or brown rice for added texture and nutrition.

With a Side Salad

• A crisp green salad with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the stew. Mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers make for a refreshing side.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your stew with chopped parsley or thyme to brighten the flavors. This adds a burst of freshness and color to the dish.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve your stew in hollowed-out bread bowls. This not only looks impressive but also provides extra deliciousness as you eat both the stew and the bread.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes can be served on the side or even beneath the stew for a filling and satisfying meal.

How to Perfect Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew

Creating the perfect Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew requires attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips.

• Brown the meat: Searing the beef before adding it to the crockpot enhances flavor and creates depth in your stew.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables contribute better taste and texture than pre-packaged options. Choose seasonal produce when possible.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference for maximum flavor.
• Thicken wisely: If you prefer a thicker stew, use cold water mixed with cornstarch towards the end of cooking for added consistency.
• Let it rest: Allowing your stew to sit for a few minutes before serving helps meld all flavors together beautifully.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to experiment by adding new herbs or spices that suit your taste. Thyme or paprika can add an exciting twist!

Best Side Dishes for Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew

Pairing side dishes with your Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Garlic Bread – Perfectly toasted garlic bread is ideal for dipping into the flavorful broth.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Season seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers; they add color and nutrients.
3. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and balances out the hearty stew.
4. Polenta – Creamy polenta offers a comforting base that pairs wonderfully with savory stews.
5. Rice Pilaf – A flavorful rice pilaf with herbs complements the dish without overpowering it.
6. Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus brings freshness and brightness to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the meat before browning can lead to bland flavor. Always season your beef with salt and pepper to enhance its taste.
• Bold cooking time: Overcooking or undercooking can ruin the stew’s texture. Make sure to stick to the recommended cook time for tender meat.
• Bold ingredient prep: Chopping vegetables too small may result in mushy pieces. Cut them into larger chunks to maintain their shape during cooking.
• Bold broth quality: Using low-quality broth can diminish flavor. Opt for a well-seasoned beef stock or homemade version for the best results.
• Bold lid lifting: Frequently lifting the lid during cooking lets heat escape, prolonging cooking time. Keep the lid on until it’s time to serve.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• • Containers: Use airtight containers to maintain freshness.

Freezing Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal taste.
• • Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving space for expansion.

Reheating Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place stew in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer stew to a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour stew into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally and heat until hot, about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew that might help you out.

How long does Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew take to cook?

Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew typically takes about 3-4 hours on high heat or 6-8 hours on low heat in a crockpot.

Can I customize my Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew?

Yes! Feel free to add different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or swap beef with lamb or turkey for a new twist.

What can I serve with Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew?

This hearty stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or even a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Is it okay to freeze Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew?

Absolutely! You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s stored properly in airtight containers.

Final Thoughts

Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew is not just easy and comforting; it’s also incredibly versatile! With options for customization, you can create a unique dish suited perfectly to your tastes. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the warmth it brings on chilly days!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 7 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food that effortlessly brings together rich flavors and hearty ingredients. This easy-to-make stew allows you to toss everything into the crockpot and let it simmer for hours, filling your home with mouthwatering aromas. Perfect for busy evenings or cozy family gatherings, this dish features tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a savory broth that warms both body and soul. With minimal prep and maximum satisfaction, it’s a go-to recipe for those chilly nights when you crave something comforting without the fuss.

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Ingredients

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• 2 ½ pounds of stew meat
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic salt
• ½ teaspoon celery salt
• ¼ cup flour
• 3–6 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups chopped yellow onions
• 4 minced garlic cloves
• 1 cup apple vinegar
• 4 cups beef stock
• 2 beef bouillon cubes
• 3 tablespoons tomato concentrate
• 5 medium carrots, chopped into 1-inch pieces
• 1 pound baby yukon gold potatoes, halved or quartered
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 rosemary sprig
• 1 cup frozen peas
• ¼ cup cold water mixed with 3 tablespoons corn starch (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients by chopping onions, mincing garlic, and cutting carrots and potatoes.
2. Optional: Sear the seasoned stew meat in olive oil until browned.
3. Combine all ingredients in the crockpot: meat, vegetables, herbs, apple vinegar, beef stock, and bouillon cubes.
4. Cook on low for about 7 hours or high for about 3 hours until the meat is tender.
5. For a thicker stew, mix cold water with cornstarch during the last hour of cooking.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 hours (low heat)
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 80mg