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Crockpot Beef Stew Recipe

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3.8 from 13 reviews

This hearty Crockpot Beef Stew features tender beef cubes slow-cooked with Yukon Gold potatoes, carrots, celery, and a rich blend of beef broth and tomato paste. Seared beef adds depth of flavor, while a slow cooking process ensures a comforting, melt-in-your-mouth stew perfect for a cozy meal.

Ingredients

Meat and Vegetables

  • 2 pounds boneless stewing beef cubes (or chuck)
  • 1/2 medium onion, chopped
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced into large bite-size pieces
  • 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into large bite-size pieces
  • 3 sticks celery, chopped

Liquids and Seasonings

  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Pepper, to taste
  • 3 bay leaves
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

  1. Sear the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown half of the beef cubes on all sides until nicely seared. Transfer the browned beef and any juices to the slow cooker. Repeat with the remaining oil and beef.
  2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, cook the chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Transfer this mixture to the slow cooker.
  3. Add Remaining Ingredients: Into the slow cooker, combine potatoes, carrots, celery, beef broth, tomato paste, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together well to combine.
  4. Add Bay Leaves and Cook: Gently nestle the bay leaves into the stew. Cover and cook on low heat for 10 hours or until the beef is very tender and the flavors are well-developed.
  5. Optional Thickening: If you prefer a thicker stew, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Stir this slurry into the stew and cook on high for an additional 10 minutes, or until thickened.

Notes

  • Searing the beef before slow cooking helps develop deeper flavor and seals in the juices.
  • Using Yukon Gold potatoes prevents the pieces from falling apart during the long cooking process.
  • You can adjust the salt and pepper to taste depending on your dietary preferences.
  • The tomato paste adds a rich umami depth but can be substituted with tomato sauce if needed.
  • For a gluten-free version, ensure the soy sauce used is gluten-free or substitute with coconut aminos.
  • Remove the bay leaves before serving to avoid any sharp edges.

Find it online: https://yumntasty.com/crockpot-beef-stew-recipe/