- Prepare the meat
Pat the beef chunks dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. This step is crucial for achieving a good sear.
- Sear the meat
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meat in batches, ensuring each piece is well-seared on all sides. Don't overcrowd the pan - this is essential for proper browning.
- Prepare vegetables
While meat is browning, prepare and chop all vegetables. Keep pieces uniform in size for even cooking.
- Layer ingredients
Place vegetables in the slow cooker, then add seared meat. Add garlic, herbs, and seasonings.
- Add liquids
Combine wine, broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour over the meat and vegetables. The liquid should just barely cover the ingredients.
- Slow cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or HIGH for 4-6 hours, until meat is fork-tender. Do not lift the lid during cooking as this will release essential heat and steam.
- Final seasoning
Remove bay leaves and thyme sprigs. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If desired, thicken the sauce with a cornstarch slurry.
- Calories:425 kcal
- Protein:38 g
- Total Fat:18 g
- Saturated Fat:6 g
- Unsaturated Fat:12 g
- Total Carbs:28 g
- Sugar:4 g
- Fiber:4 g
- Sodium:580 mg
Discover the ultimate comfort food that has warmed hearts and homes for generations. This hearty slow cooker beef stew traces its roots back to European peasant cooking, where tough cuts of meat were transformed into tender, flavorful meals through slow cooking. Rich in tradition and taste, this stew combines succulent beef chunks with garden-fresh vegetables in a deeply savory broth that develops complex flavors over hours of gentle simmering. Perfect for cold winter evenings, Sunday family gatherings, or meal prep, this recipe delivers fork-tender meat and vegetables infused with aromatic herbs and rich beef flavor. The slow cooker method ensures busy home cooks can achieve restaurant-quality results with minimal hands-on time. The combination of red wine, fresh herbs, and slow-cooked root vegetables creates an irresistible aroma that will fill your home with warmth and anticipation.
