Slow Cooker Beef and Mushroom Stew

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef:

• Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Once hot, add the beef in batches, browning it on all sides. This step enhances the flavor of the stew. Once browned, transfer the beef to the slow cooker.

1. Sauté the Aromatics:

• In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

1. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:

• Add the sautéed onion and garlic to the slow cooker with the browned beef. Pour in the beef broth, and then add the sliced mushrooms, carrots, celery, bay leaves, dried thyme, dried rosemary, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. Stir to combine all ingredients.

1. Slow Cook:

• Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. The longer it cooks, the more tender the beef will become, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

1. Thicken the Stew (Optional):

• If you prefer a thicker stew, combine the cornstarch with a few tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl to create a slurry. About 30 minutes before serving, stir the slurry into the stew and let it cook on high for the remaining time.

1. Serve:

• Once the cooking time is up, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Remove the bay leaves before serving. Ladle the stew into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread or over creamy mashed potatoes for a truly comforting meal.

Serving Suggestions

• With Bread: Serve with a warm, crusty baguette for dipping and sopping up the delicious broth.
• Over Potatoes or Rice: This stew also pairs wonderfully over mashed potatoes or rice, adding a creamy element to balance the hearty stew.

Tips

• Beef Selection: Chuck roast is ideal for stewing due to its marbling, which keeps the meat tender as it cooks. You can also use pre-cut stew meat for convenience.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like parsnips, potatoes, or peas to customize the stew to your liking.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This stew often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Beef and Mushroom Stew is the epitome of comfort food, providing warmth and satisfaction with every bite. The combination of tender beef, savory mushrooms, and fragrant herbs creates a deliciously rich dish that is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. With minimal preparation and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can have a hearty, flavorful meal ready and waiting for you after a long day. Enjoy the deliciousness of this classic stew—it’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your kitchen!