Slow Cooker Braised Beef

Brown the Beef

Let’s start by browning the beef, which is a crucial step in developing rich flavours for your dish. Heat a generous drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. You want the oil to shimmer, indicating that it’s hot enough to sear the meat. Once the oil is ready, carefully add the beef pieces to the skillet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, brown the beef in batches to ensure even cooking. Allow the beef to sear for a few minutes on each side until it develops a beautiful, golden-brown crust. This browning process enhances the flavour and adds depth to the overall dish. Once the beef is nicely browned on all sides, transfer it to the slow cooker, where it will continue to cook and become tender.

Add Vegetables

Now, let’s build on that flavour by adding some aromatic vegetables. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic in the same skillet without cleaning it. The residual heat and oil will help soften the vegetables while picking up any flavourful bits left from the beef. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This step is essential as it lays the foundation for the stew’s flavour profile. Once the onion and garlic are softened, transfer them to the slow cooker along with the carrots and turnips. These root vegetables will not only add sweetness and texture but will also absorb the delicious flavours of the broth as they cook.

Combine Ingredients

Next, it’s time to bring everything together. In a mixing bowl, combine the beef broth, red wine (if you’re using it), tomato paste, dried thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until well combined. The beef broth will provide a savoury base, while the red wine adds depth and richness to the stew. The tomato paste contributes a subtle sweetness and acidity, balancing the flavours beautifully. Once your mixture is ready, pour it over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker. Make sure everything is well coated in the liquid, as this will help the flavours meld together during the cooking process.

Cook

Now comes the best part—cooking! Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours. The low and slow method makes the beef incredibly tender while the flavours develop beautifully over time. If you’re short on time, the high setting will still yield delicious results, but the meat may not be quite as tender. As the stew cooks, your kitchen will fill with mouthwatering aromas, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste!

Serve

Once the cooking time is up, it’s time to serve this hearty dish. Before you dish it out, remember to remove the bay leaves—they’re not meant to be eaten! Give the stew a gentle stir to mix everything together, and then ladle it into bowls. Enjoy the braised beef alongside the tender vegetables, soaking up the rich broth. This comforting meal is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, and it’s sure to warm you from the inside out. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Note

This is a great meal to enjoy with your family and friends throughout winter! 

Original recipe by Eating Well