Satisfy Your Cravings with This Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe
It’s hard to resist a delicious, hearty bowl of beef stew. With its savory aroma and tender chunks of beef, it’s the ultimate comfort food that never fails to satisfy. And with this slow cooker beef stew recipe, you won’t have to slave away in the kitchen to enjoy it. It’s the perfect meal to warm you up on cold days, and it’s packed with nutrients that will keep you energized and healthy.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into bite-sized cubes
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 cups chopped carrots
– 2 cups chopped potatoes
– 1 cup chopped celery
– 1 cup chopped onion
– 1 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tsp minced garlic
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
2. Add the beef, carrots, potatoes, celery, and onion to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
4. If the stew is thinner than you’d like, whisk cornstarch with 1/4 cup of cold water and add it to the slow cooker. Stir until the stew thickens.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Health Benefits of Beef Stew:
Beef stew is not only delicious, it’s also packed with nutrients that are beneficial for your health. Here are some of the health benefits of this slow cooker beef stew recipe:
1. Rich in Protein:
Beef is an excellent source of protein, which is important for building and maintaining muscle mass. A 4-ounce serving of beef provides 25 grams of protein, which is almost half of the daily recommended intake for an adult.
2. High in Essential Vitamins and Minerals:
This beef stew recipe is also rich in essential vitamins and minerals that your body needs to function properly. Beef is a good source of iron, zinc, selenium, and vitamin B12, which are important for red blood cell formation, immune system function, and nerve function.
3. Helps with Weight Management:
Protein is known to be more filling than carbohydrates or fat, which can help with weight management. By including beef stew in your meal plan, you can feel fuller for longer, and prevent overeating.
FAQs:
1. Can I use different cuts of beef for this recipe?
You can use different cuts of beef for this recipe, but keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the cut that you choose. A tougher cut of beef, like chuck roast, works best for slow cooking because it becomes tender and flavorful when cooked for several hours. Other cuts that work well for slow cooking include brisket, short ribs, and stew meat.
2. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, you can add other vegetables to this recipe, such as mushrooms, green beans, or peas. Just keep in mind that some vegetables cook faster than others, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat the stew over the stove or in the microwave before serving.
4. How do I store leftover beef stew?
You can store leftover beef stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, or in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw the stew in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it over the stove or in the microwave.
Conclusion:
This slow cooker beef stew recipe is the ultimate comfort food that is also packed with health benefits. With its tender chunks of beef and colorful assortment of vegetables, it’s the perfect meal to warm you up on cold days. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty dinner or a satisfying lunch, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
