Ingredients
Method
Prepare the beef:
- Season the beef cubes with salt and black pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Brown the beef in batches, ensuring all sides are seared. Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.
Add vegetables to the slow cooker:
- Add the carrots, potatoes, celery, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker with the beef.
Prepare the stew base:
- In a small bowl, mix the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaves.
- Pour the mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker.
Cook the stew:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
Thicken the stew (optional):
- If you prefer a thicker stew, remove 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid and mix it with 1/4 cup of flour until smooth.
- Stir this mixture back into the stew and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes.
Serve:
- Remove the bay leaves before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve the beef stew hot, with crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes.
Notes
This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a hearty, comforting dish that's perfect for colder days. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in tender beef and flavorful vegetables in a rich broth. Enjoy this classic comfort food with your favorite sides!