Slow Cooker Corned Beef Stew

Prepare the ingredients:
Beef: Season the beef cubes with salt and black pepper. Optionally, you can brown the beef in a pan with a little oil over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes to enhance the flavor, but this step is not necessary.
Vegetables: Peel and cut the carrots and potatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking. Chop the onion and celery, and finely chop the garlic.
Assemble in the slow cooker:
Place the seasoned beef cubes in the bottom of the slow cooker.
Add the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, potatoes, and celery to the beef.

In a separate bowl, combine the beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, bay leaves, and paprika. Pour this mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook the stew:
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours, until the meat is tender and the vegetables are soft.
Thicken the stew:
About 30 minutes before serving, mix the all-purpose flour with water in a small bowl to make a slurry.
Remove the bay leaves from the slow cooker.
Stir the slurry into the stew to thicken the broth. Cover and continue cooking on high for the remaining time.
Add the peas:
Stir in the frozen peas and let them warm for about 10 minutes before serving.
Serve:
Ladle the hearty beef stew into bowls.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
Serve warm with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal. Serving suggestions:

With crusty bread: Perfect for dipping into the rich broth.
With rice or egg noodles: Adds a nice texture and makes the meal more filling.

With a fresh green salad: Balances the hearty stew with a light and crunchy side.
With sour cream: Adds a creamy contrast to the savory flavors.
With a sprinkle of fresh herbs: Enhance the taste and presentation with parsley or thyme.
Cooking instructions:

Even cut: Cut all vegetables and beef into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
Brown the beef: Although optional, browning the beef beforehand adds depth of flavor to the stew.
Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker stew, add more flour slurry or let the stew cook uncovered for the last hour. Herbal Variations: Fresh herbs such as rosemary and thyme can be used in place of dried herbs. Use about three times as much fresh herbs as dried.
Flavor Boosts: Add a little balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce for an extra kick.
Nutritional Value:

Beef: Provides high-quality protein and essential nutrients such as iron and B vitamins, which help maintain muscle and energy levels.
Carrots and Potatoes: Rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, which support immune and digestive health.
Celery and Onions: Offer vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that promote overall health.
Garlic: Contains allicin, which has anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
Beef Broth: Adds collagen and minerals that benefit joint and skin health.
Dietary Information:

Gluten-Free: Yes, using gluten-free flour or a gluten-free thickener.
Dairy-Free: Yes
Nut-Free: Yes
Vegetarian: No, but can be adapted by using plant-based meat substitutes.
Low-Carb: Not low-carb due to the potatoes and carrots, but portion control can help control carbohydrate intake.
Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximate):

Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 35 g
Carbohydrate: 30 g
Fat: 20 g
Fiber: 5 g
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 800 mg
Note: Nutritional values ​​may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Storage:

Refrigeration: Store beef stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze: Freeze the stew in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating instructions: Heat gently on the stovetop over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Add a little water or broth if the stew has thickened too much.
Why you'll love this recipe:

Tender and flavorful: Slow cooking allows the meat to melt tenderly in your mouth while absorbing all the rich flavors.
Nutritious: Packed with protein and a variety of vegetables, making it a balanced and healthy meal option.
Convenient: Minimal hands-on time allows you to set it and forget it, perfect for busy schedules.
Versatile: Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables, herbs, or spices to suit your taste preferences.
Family-friendly: A comforting and hearty dish that appeals to kids and adults alike. Bottom Line: Slow Cooker Corned Beef Stew is a timeless and beloved dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. The rich combination of tender beef, nutritious vegetables, and flavorful broth makes it a satisfying meal for any occasion. Whether you're preparing for a busy weeknight, a family gathering, or simply craving a healthy and delicious stew, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Embrace the convenience and nutritional benefits of slow-cooking and savor every hearty bite of this delicious beef stew!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Can I use different cuts of beef for this stew?

Yes, chuck steak is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, but you can also use pot roast, brisket, or ribs.
How can I thicken this stew? Add more flour slurry, simmer uncovered longer, or stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water during the last hour of cooking.
Can I add more vegetables to the stew?
Absolutely! Peppers, green beans, mushrooms, or peas can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.
Is it necessary to brown the meat before adding it to the slow cooker?
Browning adds extra depth of flavor, but is optional. If you're short on time, you can skip this step.
Can I make this stew vegetarian?
Yes, replace the beef with lentils or a plant-based meat substitute and use vegetable broth.
How can I keep the stew from becoming too salty?
Use low-sodium beef broth and adjust the salt to taste toward the end of cooking.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried? Yes, use fresh rosemary and thyme. Use about three times as much fresh herbs as dried herbs.
How long can I keep the stew in the freezer?
The stew can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure it is stored in airtight containers to maintain its quality.
Can I cook this stew on high instead of low?
Yes, cook on high for 4 to 5 hours instead of 8 hours on low. However, longer cooking on low yields results in more tender beef.
What can I serve with this beef stew?
It pairs well with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.