Slow Cooker Beef Stew
This beef stew features tender chunks of beef, root vegetables, and aromatic herbs simmered slowly in a crockpot. The dish develops a hearty, thickened broth with velvety vegetables and melt-in-your-mouth meat, resulting in a rustic and comforting meal with a rich, layered flavor and homestyle appearance.
Equipment
- Slow Cooker or Crockpot
- Cutting Board
- Kitchen knife
- Large skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef stew meat cut into 1-2 inch cubes
- 3 large carrots peeled and chopped
- 2 parsnips parsnips peeled and sliced
- 1 small turnip peeled and diced
- 1 large onion diced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups beef broth preferably low sodium
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons thyme dried or fresh
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for searing the beef
- to taste salt and pepper for seasoning
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Sear the beef cubes in batches until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per batch—this locks in flavor and creates a rich base.
- Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker. Toss in the chopped carrots, sliced parsnips, diced turnip, and diced onion for a colorful, hearty mix.
- In a small bowl, whisk together beef broth, tomato paste, minced garlic, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour this mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker, ensuring all are submerged.
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the beef to become melt-in-your-mouth tender. The vegetables will soften and absorb the savory juices.
- Once cooked, remove the lid and gently stir the stew. If you prefer a thicker broth, remove the meat and vegetables, then turn the slow cooker to high. Mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir into the hot liquid until it thickens.
- Return the meat and vegetables to the thickened broth, stir gently to combine, and cook for another 15 minutes until heated through and slightly more concentrated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or herbs if desired. The stew should be rich, hearty, and simmering with a velvety, thickened sauce.
- Serve hot in bowls, garnished with fresh herbs if you like. The stew will have a rustic appearance with tender meat, glossy vegetables, and a thick, flavorful broth—perfect for cozy days.
