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 endless to-do lists. Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew is here to save the day! This hearty dish combines tender beef with vibrant vegetables, creating a warm and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a family gathering, this stew offers rich flavors and an effortless cooking experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless preparation: With minimal hands-on time, just toss your ingredients in the crockpot and let it do the work.
• Rich flavor: The combination of beef stock, spices, and vegetables creates a depth of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Versatile ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or substitute proteins to make it your own.
• Perfect for leftovers: This stew tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal meal prep option for busy weeks.
• Comforting and filling: Hearty enough to satisfy even the hungriest of appetites, this stew is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew, you’ll need some essential tools that ensure everything runs smoothly in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows you to cook the beef stew low and slow, making every bite tender and delicious.
• Chef’s knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients before adding them to your crockpot, helping streamline your prep work.

Ingredients

For the Beef 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)

For the Vegetables

• 2 cups chopped yellow onions
• 4 minced garlic cloves
• 5 medium carrots, chopped into 1-inch pieces
• 1 pound baby yukon gold potatoes, halved or quartered

For Flavoring

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

For Additional Seasoning

• 2 bay leaves
• 1 rosemary sprig

Optional Ingredients

• 1 cup frozen peas
• 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 Meat

Start by seasoning the stew meat with black pepper, garlic salt, celery salt, and flour. Toss until evenly coated.

Step 2: Sear the Meat

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sear the coated stew meat until browned on all sides. This step adds extra flavor to your stew.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet, melt some of the chilled butter. Add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients in Crockpot

Transfer seared meat and sautéed vegetables into your slow cooker. Pour in apple vinegar followed by beef stock. Add bouillon cubes, worcestershire sauce, tomato concentrate, carrots, potatoes, bay leaves, and rosemary sprig.

Step 5: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your crockpot and set it to low heat. Let it cook for about 210 minutes (approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes), or until meat is tender.

Step 6: Thicken Your Stew (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix cold water with corn starch in a small bowl until smooth. Stir into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Step 7: Add Frozen Peas

About ten minutes before serving, stir in frozen peas for added color and nutrition.

With these steps completed, you’ll have yourself a delightful bowl of Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew

Serving Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew is as simple as it is satisfying. This hearty dish can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for any occasion.

Classic Bowl

• A steaming bowl of stew topped with fresh herbs like parsley brings warmth to any table.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside a slice of crusty bread or a warm roll, perfect for soaking up the rich broth.

Over Rice

• Ladle the stew over a bed of fluffy rice, adding another layer of texture and flavor.

As a Pot Pie Filling

• Use the stew as a filling for pot pies; simply cover with pastry and bake until golden brown.

How to Perfect Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew

To elevate your Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew, consider these handy tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Sear the meat: Browning the beef before adding it to the crockpot develops a richer flavor.
• Use fresh herbs: Incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or bay leaves can brighten the dish and add depth.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste during cooking and adjust seasoning as needed to ensure balanced flavors.
• Add vegetables gradually: Consider adding delicate vegetables like peas towards the end of cooking to maintain their color and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew

Pairing your Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew with complementary side dishes enhances your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes made with garlic add richness that pairs well with the stew.
2. Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans provide a fresh contrast to the hearty stew.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until crispy, these add a delightful crunch.
4. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins bring a comforting sweetness that balances savory flavors.
5. Simple Side Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette offers brightness to your plate.
6. Buttered Noodles: Tender egg noodles tossed in butter make for a delightful side that complements the stew’s richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking a Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the beef before adding it to the crockpot can lead to a less flavorful stew. Browning enhances the meat’s taste through caramelization.
• Overloading with Vegetables: Adding too many vegetables can water down the flavors. Stick to the recommended amounts for a balanced stew.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking your stew for too short a time will leave the meat tough. Ensure you cook it for the full time needed for tender results.
• Not Using Enough Liquid: A dry stew is not appealing. Be sure to use enough beef stock or broth to keep everything moist and flavorful.
• Forgetting Seasoning Adjustments: Tastes can change as stews cook. Always taste and adjust seasonings like salt and pepper towards the end of cooking.
• Not Allowing for Rest Time: Serving immediately after cooking might not yield the best flavor. Letting it rest allows flavors to meld together beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Use within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew

• Allow the stew to cool completely before freezing.
• Freeze in portioned containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Use within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout, about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making this Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew, here are some common questions answered:

Can I use other meats instead of beef?

Yes! You can substitute chicken or turkey if you prefer lighter meats. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What vegetables work well in this stew?

Feel free to add your favorites like bell peppers or green beans; just make sure they complement the beef flavor!

How do I thicken my Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew?

You can mix cold water with cornstarch and stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking for added thickness.

Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Absolutely! It actually tastes better when made ahead as flavors deepen over time. Just store properly before reheating.

What should I serve with my Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew?

This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew is perfect for busy nights when comfort food is essential. Its rich flavors and tender meat make it a family favorite that you can customize with your favorite veggies or spices. Give it a try; you’ll find it’s a fantastic addition to your meal rotation!

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Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew

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Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a hearty meal without the hassle. This delightful dish combines tender beef with a medley of vibrant vegetables, all simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. With minimal prep time and rich, savory flavors, this stew is sure to become a family favorite. As it cooks slowly, the ingredients meld together to create a warming and satisfying bowl that’s ideal for chilly evenings or family gatherings. It even tastes better as leftovers, making it an excellent meal prep option. Let the crockpot do the work while you focus on what matters most!

• Total Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

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Instructions

1. Season and coat stew meat with black pepper, garlic salt, celery salt, and flour.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sear the meat until browned on all sides.
3. Sauté onions and garlic in butter until softened.
4. Combine seared meat, sautéed vegetables, apple vinegar, beef stock, bouillon cubes, tomato concentrate, carrots, potatoes, bay leaves, and rosemary in the crockpot.
5. Cover and cook on low for about 210 minutes (3 hours 30 minutes) until meat is tender.
6. Optional: For a thicker stew, mix cornstarch with cold water and stir into the pot during the last 30 minutes.
7. Stir in frozen peas before serving.

• Author: Diary
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 210 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 85mg