Savory Beef Stew (Crock Pot)
Prepare yourself for the ultimate comfort food experience with this hearty Savory Beef Stew cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. Ideal for those cozy winter days or whenever you crave a wholesome, nutritious meal that practically cooks itself! This recipe has been thoughtfully crafted to deliver rich flavors without the need for added salt, allowing you to customize seasoning according to your taste preferences.
Cooking Times:
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 20 minutes | 9 hours | 9 hours 20 minutes |
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat
- 1 can (28 oz) whole tomatoes
- 2 celery ribs, chopped
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 4 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 – 1 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
- 2 beef bouillon cubes, dissolved in hot water
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- Optional: additional salt to taste
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 466.3
- Fat: 9.1g
- Saturated Fat: 3.8g
- Cholesterol: 116.4mg
- Sodium: 1146mg
- Carbohydrates: 51.9g
- Fiber: 8.5g
- Sugar: 9.8g
- Protein: 46.6g
Instructions:
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Preparation: Begin by placing the beef stew meat, whole tomatoes (undrained), chopped celery, sliced carrots, minced garlic, diced potatoes, and freshly ground black pepper into your crock pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
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Slow Cooking: Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low heat for approximately 8 to 10 hours. This slow cooking process ensures that the beef becomes tender and the vegetables are infused with rich flavors.
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Adding Final Touches: After the initial cooking time, carefully remove the lid and add the peas to the stew. In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in cold water, then pour this mixture into the crock pot, stirring gently to incorporate. This step helps thicken the stew to a delightful consistency.
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Final Cooking Phase: Increase the crock pot temperature setting to high and allow the stew to cook for an additional 20 to 30 minutes. This final phase ensures that the peas are tender and the stew reaches the desired thickness.
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Adjust Seasoning (if needed): Since this recipe intentionally omits salt during cooking, taste the stew and adjust seasoning according to your preference. Feel free to add salt at the table as desired, ensuring each serving is perfectly seasoned to suit your taste buds.
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Serving: Serve this savory beef stew hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, alongside crusty bread or over fluffy rice for a satisfying meal that warms both body and soul.
Recipe Notes:
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Customization: Experiment with additional herbs and spices such as thyme, rosemary, or paprika to enhance the flavor profile to your liking.
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Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain the stew’s consistency.
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Healthy Twist: This stew is packed with vegetables and lean beef, making it a nutritious choice for those looking to enjoy a balanced meal without compromising on flavor.
Indulge in the warmth and robust flavors of this easy-to-make Savory Beef Stew, perfect for any occasion where a hearty, wholesome meal is in order. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or simply craving a bowl of comfort, this crock pot recipe delivers satisfaction in every spoonful.
