Hearty Beef Stew(Crock-Pot)
A hearty, comforting beef stew with tender meat, flavorful vegetables, and aromatic spices, perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim all fat from the stew beef and cut into 1-inch cubes.
- Place all ingredients into the crock-pot and mix thoroughly.
- Cover and cook on low for 12 hours or on high for 5 to 6 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the stew beef in a skillet before adding it to the crock-pot. You can substitute the quick cooking tapioca with cornstarch if you prefer a thicker stew. If you want a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes. Ensure to season with salt and pepper generously to enhance the flavors throughout this hearty dish.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty beef stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad to balance the rich flavors. For a different twist, you can also serve it with biscuits or cornmeal muffins, making it a satisfying family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover beef stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the stew. It can also be reheated in the microwave in short increments until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hearty Beef Stew(Crock-Pot) contains roughly 379 calories, with 16g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (95% of the Daily Value), iron (67% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (59% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 612mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen stew beef, but it's best to thaw it first for even cooking. If using frozen, increase the cooking time slightly to ensure the beef is tender and cooked through.
What can I add to make the stew more nutritious?
You can enhance the nutritional value by adding vegetables like potatoes, peas, or green beans. These additions not only boost the nutrition but also add different textures and flavors to your stew.
Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Absolutely! This beef stew can be made a day in advance, as the flavors develop and deepen overnight. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve; it will taste even better the next day.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).