Family Favorite Beef Stew Recipe
Description:
Indulge in the heartiness of this beloved Family Favorite Beef Stew, a comforting concoction that has won over the taste buds of generations. With its rich flavors and tender chunks of beef, paired perfectly with wholesome vegetables, this stew is a true crowd-pleaser, loved by both adults and kids alike. Even the pickiest of eaters, including that discerning four-year-old, will eagerly dig into this nourishing dish. Originally crafted from a blend of various recipes, this stew has undergone tweaks and adjustments over time, ensuring its place as a cherished family tradition. An addition of red cabbage brings a hint of sophistication to the dish, appealing to grown-up palates, though the little ones may not share the same enthusiasm for this particular twist. However, as with any beloved recipe, there’s always room for experimentation and improvement. Perhaps a touch of umami from anchovies could elevate the flavors further? The kitchen is your playground, so don’t hesitate to explore and customize to suit your taste preferences!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound stew beef chunks
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 cloves garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 potatoes, cubed
- 3 cups V8 juice (reduced to 2 cups for a thicker consistency)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 239.8
- Fat Content: 0.5g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0.1g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 1195.9mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 54.5g
- Fiber Content: 7.1g
- Sugar Content: 10.7g
- Protein Content: 6.4g
Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours and 20 minutes
Recipe Instructions:
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Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by layering the sliced carrots, diced onions, and cubed potatoes at the bottom of your slow cooker, creating a flavorful bed for the stew.
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Coat the Beef: In a bowl, toss the stew beef chunks with flour until evenly coated, shaking off any excess. This helps to thicken the stew as it cooks. For an extra depth of flavor, consider sautéing the coated beef in hot oil until browned, though this step is optional yet highly recommended for optimal taste.
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Layer the Ingredients: Arrange the coated beef on top of the bed of vegetables in the slow cooker, creating a hearty foundation for your stew.
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Prepare the Flavorful Broth: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the V8 juice, diced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and any additional seasonings or ingredients of your choice. This aromatic mixture will infuse the stew with layers of savory goodness.
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Pour and Cook: Pour the prepared broth over the beef and vegetable layers in the slow cooker, ensuring that the ingredients are well-coated and submerged in the flavorful liquid. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on high for 20-30 minutes, allowing the initial burst of heat to kickstart the cooking process.
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Patience is a Virtue: While the stew simmers away, take this opportunity to attend to other tasks or simply unwind and savor the anticipation of a delicious meal brewing in the kitchen.
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Slow and Steady Wins the Flavor Race: After the initial high heat, reduce the slow cooker temperature to low and let the stew continue to cook for a leisurely 8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and develop into a sumptuous symphony of taste.
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Season and Serve: Just before serving, season the stew with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning to suit your preferences. Ladle generous portions of the piping hot stew into bowls, and savor the comforting aroma and flavors with each soul-warming spoonful. Enjoy this beloved Family Favorite Beef Stew with your loved ones, creating cherished memories around the dinner table.
This recipe yields a delightful stew that nourishes both body and soul, making it an ideal choice for cozy winter evenings, busy weeknights, or anytime you crave a hearty, fuss-free meal that brings the family together. With its simple yet satisfying ingredients and customizable nature, this stew is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire, earning rave reviews from all who taste its comforting goodness.
