Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This beef stew recipe, utilizing the magic of onion soup mix and the convenience of a slow cooker, is your answer. It's a perfect example of delicious dishes that require minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights or relaxing weekend evenings. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 packet (1 ounce) dry onion soup mix
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed tomato soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup frozen peas or corn
Instructions:
Step 1: Browning the Beef (Optional but Recommended)
For a richer flavor, start by browning the beef cubes in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This step isn't strictly necessary, but it adds depth to the final stew. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Set the browned beef aside.
Step 2: Assembling the Stew in your Crock Pot
Place the browned beef (or un-browned beef) into your slow cooker. Add the onion soup mix, condensed tomato soup, beef broth, water, carrots, celery, onion, potatoes, thyme, and bay leaf. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Slow Cooking to Perfection
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
Step 4: The Finishing Touches
If using frozen peas or corn, stir them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Tips for the Best Beef Stew:
- Cut the beef evenly: This ensures even cooking.
- Don't overfill your slow cooker: Leave some space at the top for proper steaming.
- Use a good quality beef broth: It makes a difference in the flavor.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Every slow cooker is slightly different, so adjust salt and pepper to your preference.
Variations:
- Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, green beans, or turnips.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or heavy cream before serving.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with rosemary, oregano, or parsley.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate per serving is:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This hearty beef stew is a perfect example of healthy meals made easy. It’s a complete and satisfying dish, perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. Enjoy this simple yet incredibly flavorful recipe! It's sure to become a staple in your recipe collection of best recipes for its ease and delicious taste. This is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delicious and satisfying meal without a lot of fuss.