Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Beef Stew

Looking for a simple and delicious recipe to warm you up on a chilly day? This Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Beef Stew is sure to hit the spot! With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a hearty and flavorful meal ready to enjoy.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds beef stew meat
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 4 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, celery)

Instructions:

• In a slow cooker, combine beef stew meat, diced onion, beef broth, and mixed vegetables.
• Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the meat is tender and vegetables are cooked through.
• Season to taste with salt and pepper before serving.

Popular Questions:

• Q: Can I use different vegetables in this stew?

A: Yes, feel free to swap out the mixed vegetables for your favorites such as peas, green beans, or bell peppers.

• Q: Can I use a different type of meat?

A: You can use pork or chicken stew meat as a substitute for the beef stew meat if desired.

• Q: Can I add additional seasonings to the stew?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the flavor with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves.

• Q: Can I cook this stew on the stovetop instead of using a slow cooker?

A: Yes, you can simmer the stew on low heat on the stovetop until the meat is tender and vegetables are cooked.

• Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this beef stew?

A: Yes, this stew freezes well for up to 3 months in an airtight container.

• Q: Can I add red wine to this beef stew for extra flavor?

A: Adding a splash of red wine can enhance the flavor of the stew, just adjust the amount of beef broth accordingly.

• Q: Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use frozen mixed vegetables in place of fresh vegetables if that’s what you have on hand.

• Q: Can I brown the beef stew meat before adding it to the slow cooker?

A: Browning the meat can add depth of flavor, but it’s not necessary for this recipe.

• Q: Can I add barley or pasta to this beef stew?

A: You can certainly add barley or pasta during the last hour of cooking for a heartier stew.

• Q: Can I make this beef stew in an Instant Pot instead of a slow cooker?

A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for an Instant Pot by adjusting the cooking time and method accordingly.

Helpful Tips:

• For extra depth of flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or balsamic vinegar to the stew.
• If you prefer a thicker stew, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in during the last hour of cooking.
• Feel free to add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness just before serving.
• Serve the beef stew over cooked rice or with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.
• To make this stew more filling, consider adding canned beans like kidney beans or chickpeas.
• Adjust the salt and pepper seasoning to your preference, but be mindful of the salt content in the beef broth.
• If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the stew.
• Make a double batch of this beef stew and freeze individual portions for easy reheatable meals on busy days.
• Experiment with different vegetable combinations to suit your taste preferences and seasonal availability.
• To add a touch of sweetness, consider tossing in a handful of raisins or chopped sweet potatoes to the stew.

Expert Secrets:

• The key to tender beef in this stew is to cook it low and slow, allowing the meat to break down and become melt-in-your-mouth tender.
• For optimal flavor, sauté the onions before adding them to the slow cooker to caramelize and enhance their sweetness.
• For a richer broth, deglaze the pan used to brown the beef with a bit of red wine before adding it to the slow cooker.
• For a boost of savory umami flavor, incorporate a spoonful of tomato paste into the stew during cooking.
• For a Mediterranean twist, add a pinch of dried oregano and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors of the stew.
• To add a smoky depth to the stew, consider stirring in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke at the end of cooking.
• For a gluten-free option, ensure that the beef broth and any additional seasonings are free from gluten-containing ingredients.
• Play around with different cuts of beef like chuck roast or brisket for variations in texture and flavor in the stew.
• To achieve a thicker consistency without using cornstarch, add diced potatoes or parsnips during the cooking process to naturally thicken the stew.
• For a touch of freshness, garnish the beef stew with a sprinkle of chopped green onions or a dollop of sour cream before serving.