Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 lbs. beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 large carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup dry red wine
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- Salt and pepper to taste

Special Equipment Needed:
- Slow cooker

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Place the beef cubes, carrots, potatoes, onion, garlic, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, oregano, bay leaves, beef broth, and red wine in a slow cooker.
2. Stir to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the beef is tender.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth.
5. Add the cornstarch mixture to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
6. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the stew has thickened.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
8. Serve hot.

Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Temperature: Low
Serving Size: 6-8

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 456
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 33g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- Beef stew meat: can be substituted with pork or chicken
- Carrots: can be substituted with parsnips
- Potatoes: can be substituted with sweet potatoes
- Onion: can be substituted with shallots
- Tomato paste: can be substituted with tomato sauce
- Worcestershire sauce: can be substituted with soy sauce
- Beef broth: can be substituted with vegetable broth
- Red wine: can be substituted with white wine

Variations:
- Add 1 cup of frozen peas or corn for a more vegetable-filled stew
- Add 1 teaspoon of chili powder for a spicier stew
- Add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smokier flavor

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to cut the vegetables into uniform pieces so they cook evenly
- Taste the stew before serving and adjust the seasoning, if needed

Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve with a side of crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.

Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Sliced green onions

Pairings:
- Red wine
- Crusty bread

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Mashed potatoes
- Roasted vegetables
- Steamed green beans

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the stew is too thick, add a bit more beef broth or water to thin it out.
- If the stew is too thin, add a bit more cornstarch to thicken it up.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to store the stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Make sure to reheat the stew to an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

Food History:
Beef stew is a classic comfort food dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is believed to have originated in Europe in the Middle Ages and has since become a popular dish around the world.

Flavor Profiles:
This stew has a savory and slightly sweet flavor with a hint of herbs and spices.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a side of crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.

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Taste: Savory, Hearty, Rich, Comforting, Umami, Herbal