Hearty Crockpot Beef Stew Bliss

As the chill of fall sets in and the leaves begin to rustle, there's nothing quite as comforting as the warm embrace of a hearty beef stew. This crockpot recipe turns simple ingredients into a soul-soothing meal, filling your home with irresistible aromas and your heart with bliss. Let’s dive into the perfect recipe to keep you cozy all season long.

Ingredients

2 pounds of beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon of salt
1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
4 cloves of garlic, minced
4 cups of beef broth
3 tablespoons of tomato paste
1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
4 large carrots, sliced
4 potatoes, peeled and cubed
3 stalks of celery, sliced
2 teaspoons of dried thyme
1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
2 bay leaves
1 cup of frozen peas

Cooking method

Prepare the Beef: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Add the beef cubes and toss until they are well-coated.
Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, searing each side until browned. Transfer the beef to the crockpot.
Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes, or until they become translucent. Transfer them to the crockpot.
Combine the Ingredients: Add the beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce to the crockpot. Stir well to combine.
Add Vegetables and Herbs: Add the carrots, potatoes, celery, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves to the crockpot. Stir to distribute the ingredients evenly.
Cook: Cover and cook on low heat for 7-8 hours or on high heat for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
Finish: About 30 minutes before the stew is done, stir in the frozen peas. Allow them to heat through before serving.
Serve: Remove the bay leaves and serve hot. Enjoy the comforting flavors of your homemade beef stew.

Nutritious Value and Pairings

Beef stew is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. It's a great source of protein from the beef, providing essential amino acids, while the variety of vegetables contribute vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Potatoes and carrots add carbohydrates for energy, and the peas bring in a touch of sweetness along with extra fiber.

Best Side Dishes or Salads

Crusty Bread: Serve the stew with a side of crusty bread to soak up the rich broth.
Mixed Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a simple vinaigrette can balance the richness of the stew.
Roasted Vegetables: Complement the stew with a medley of roasted seasonal vegetables for additional textures and flavors.

Drinks to Pair

Red Wine: A robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot pairs beautifully with the hearty flavors of the stew.
Craft Beer: A malty beer, such as a brown ale, complements the savory tastes.
Hot Tea: For a non-alcoholic option, a hot cup of black or herbal tea can offer a soothing balance to the meal.

Indulge in the comforting embrace of this hearty beef stew, perfect for warming up chilly nights and creating cherished memories around the dinner table.