Ingredients:
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2 lbs beef stew meat (chuck roast or beef brisket, cut into cubes)
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4 cups beef broth
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4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
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4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
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1 large onion, chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup frozen peas
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2 tablespoons tomato paste
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon dried rosemary
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1 bay leaf
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2 tablespoons flour (optional, for thickening)
Instructions:
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Prep the beef: If you haven’t done so already, cut the beef into 1-2 inch cubes.
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Combine ingredients: In your slow cooker, add the beef stew meat, carrots, potatoes, onion, garlic, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Pour the beef broth over the top.
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Cook: Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
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Thicken (optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix 2 tablespoons of flour with a bit of cold water to form a slurry. Stir this mixture into the stew about 30 minutes before serving, then let it cook on high to thicken up.
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Add peas: Stir in the frozen peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
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Serve: Once the stew is ready, remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.
Enjoy your hearty, comforting beef stew! Let me know if you want to tweak it or try any variations!