This Slow Cooker Beef and Ale Stew is a cozy classic! It’s filled with tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich ale flavor that warms you right up.
I love how it cooks slowly, making the meat super soft and tasty. Just throw everything in, set it, and forget it. Perfect for when you want a tasty meal with little effort!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is great for stews due to its rich flavor and tenderness after slow cooking. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could use beef sirloin, but you may need to adjust the cooking time.
Ale: Stout or porter adds depth to the stew. If you don’t want to use alcohol, substitute with extra beef broth or a non-alcoholic beer. I’ve even made it with root beer for a unique twist that the kids loved!
Potatoes: I prefer Yukon Gold for their buttery texture, but russet potatoes are a fine substitute. Use sweeter potatoes if you want a hint of sweetness in the stew.
Herbs: Fresh herbs can brighten up the dish. If you have fresh thyme and rosemary on hand, feel free to substitute them for dried. Generally, use three times the amount if the herbs are fresh.
How Do I Properly Sear the Beef?
Searing the beef is a crucial step to develop flavor. Here’s how to get it right:
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet on medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary. This ensures even browning.
- Cook the beef for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until it’s brown on all sides.
- Transfer the beef to the slow cooker carefully to avoid any splashes.
Taking the time to sear the beef will enhance the overall taste of your stew. Enjoy the aroma the moment it starts to brown!
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef and Ale Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, halved or quartered
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup ale (such as stout or porter)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting stew takes about 15 minutes of prep time and will cook in your slow cooker for 4-8 hours, depending on your setting. Just prep the ingredients, set it, and let it simmer until the beef is tender and the flavors meld together beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear them until they are browned on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t skip this step; it adds great flavor! Once browned, transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, now infused with beef flavor, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This adds a nice aromatic layer to your stew. Once ready, add this mixture to the slow cooker with the beef.
3. Add Vegetables:
Next, toss in the sliced carrots and the halved or quartered potatoes into the slow cooker. These will soak up all the delicious flavors as they cook.
4. Mix in Liquids and Seasonings:
Pour in the beef broth and ale over the meat and veggies. Then, stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste! Give everything a good stir to combine all the flavors well.
5. Slow Cook the Stew:
Cover your slow cooker with its lid and choose your cooking time: cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The beef should become tender, and the aroma will fill your kitchen!
6. Final Touches and Serve:
When the cooking time is up, taste your stew and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley, alongside some crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy this warm, hearty meal!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef for This Stew?
Absolutely! While beef chuck is ideal for its flavor and tenderness after slow cooking, you can use other cuts like brisket or round. Just make sure they have some fat content to keep the stew moist and flavorful.
What Can I Substitute for Ale in This Recipe?
If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute ale with an equal amount of beef broth or a non-alcoholic beer. If you want some extra depth of flavor, adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce can also do the trick!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips, or even some peas or green beans near the end of cooking for added color and nutrition. Just adjust the cooking time as needed depending on how quickly the vegetables cook.
