The weather here in North Texas this weekend turned brutal. It was 7 degrees F this morning, and the high didn't get above 12. We're in for at least two or three more days of this before the temps climb above freezing. So, what's a person to do? We stay indoors, let the faucets drip so the water lines don't freeze, and we cook hearty meals to keep us warm.
When I was young, my mom would usually make either a big pot of soup or stew for days like this. I've made both as well, but I had a desire for some good old-fashioned beef stew this time. And being that really good stew takes a long time to make, I decided to let my slow cooker do the work.
This is a classic recipe containing beef, potatoes, carrots, and peas, all cooked in a delicious sauce that's thickened at the end to give us that look and feel that just says "home". I hope you enjoy it.
Adapted from The Cozy Cook
A classic stew with all the favorites - beef, potatoes, carrots, peas, and a rich sauce. Perfect for warming up on a cold wintry day.
Adapted from The Cozy Cook
Place cubed beef into a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle pepper, garlic powder, and celery salt over meat and toss to coat. Sprinkle flour over meat and toss again to coat.
In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Working in batches, add the meat to the skillet, searing the outside of each piece for approximately 45 seconds per side (do not cook all the way through). Placed seared meat into a 6-quart or larger slow cooker. Add the remaining olive oil to the skillet halfway through searing the batches of meat.
Melt the butter in the skillet, then add the onions and cook for approximately 5 minutes or until softened. Add the garlic and cook for one additional minute. Remove from heat and add a splash of the wine to deglaze the bottom of the skillet, scraping up the brown bits. Add the onion mixture to the slow cooker.
Add all other ingredients except the peas, Kitchen Bouquet (if used), cornstarch, and water. Stir to mix thoroughly.
Cook on Low for 7 to 8 hours or on High for 3 1/2 to 4 hours. Approximately 15 minutes before the end of cooking, add the peas and Kitchen Bouquet (if used). Combine the cornstarch and water to make a slurry, then mix into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce.
Serving Size 2 cups
Servings 12
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.