Why Make This Recipe
Slow Cooker Beef and Carrot Stew is a wonderful dish that warms you up on a chilly day. It’s hearty, packed with flavor, and incredibly easy to make. With just a few ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a meal that is both satisfying and healthy. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this stew is sure to please everyone.
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef and Carrot Stew
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into chunks
- 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed (optional)
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for browning)
Directions:
- Season the beef with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat and brown the beef on all sides. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, lightly sauté the onions and garlic until softened, about 2-3 minutes, then add to the slow cooker.
- Add the carrots, celery, and (if using) potatoes to the slow cooker.
- Stir in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf.
- Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors meld together.
- Remove the bay leaf, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef and Carrot Stew
This stew is delicious on its own, but you can enhance your meal by serving it with crusty bread or over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. A side salad can also complement the dish nicely, adding freshness to your plate.
How to Store Slow Cooker Beef and Carrot Stew
If you have leftovers, let the stew cool to room temperature. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Beef and Carrot Stew
- For a thicker stew, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water) in the last hour of cooking.
- Feel free to add more vegetables, like peas or green beans, to increase the nutrition and flavor.
- If you want a bit of spice, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño.
Variation
You can make this recipe with different types of meat, such as chicken or pork, but the cooking time may vary. For a vegetarian version, consider using lentils and vegetable broth instead of beef.
FAQs
Can I use frozen beef stew meat?
Yes, you can use frozen beef stew meat directly in the slow cooker. Just increase the cooking time by an hour.
Can I make this stew without a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can make this stew in a large pot on the stove. Just simmer on low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until the beef is tender.
What can I serve with the stew besides bread or mashed potatoes?
You can also serve it with rice, quinoa, or a simple side of steamed vegetables. These options add great texture and flavor contrast!