For this recipe, you will need 2 pounds of beef chuck roast. This cut is ideal because it becomes tender and flavorful after slow cooking. Cut the meat into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and better texture.
Use 2 tablespoons of olive oil to sear the beef before adding it to the crockpot. The oil enhances the flavor and helps lock in moisture during cooking.
One medium onion adds sweetness and depth to your stew. Chop it finely so that it cooks down well and blends seamlessly into the dish.
Four cloves of garlic provide a robust flavor profile. Minced garlic brings out the savory elements in this recipe; add them just before searing the meat for maximum impact.
Include 2 cups of sliced carrots for natural sweetness and color. They add nutritional value while complementing the rich flavors of the beef.
Use 1 cup of chopped celery to introduce crunch and freshness. Celery also contributes to the overall aroma of your stew as it cooks.
Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with beef. They absorb juices from the meat and spices, enhancing the dish’s umami quality.
For liquid, you’ll need 4 cups of low-sodium beef broth. It serves as the base of your stew and infuses all ingredients with flavor while keeping sodium levels in check.
Two tablespoons of tomato paste give a rich color and subtle acidity to balance out the flavors in your stew without adding many carbs.
Add salt, pepper, and thyme according to taste preferences (about 1 teaspoon each). These spices are crucial for elevating the overall flavor profile without overwhelming it.
Start by gathering all your ingredients and cutting them as directed above. Having everything prepped will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add bite-sized pieces of beef chuck roast and season them lightly with salt and pepper. Sear on all sides until browned (about 5-7 minutes). This step adds depth to the flavor through caramelization.
Once seared, transfer the beef into your crockpot along with any juices left in the skillet. This will help enhance flavors as they cook together throughout the process.
Layer in chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, chopped celery, and mushrooms over the meat in your crockpot. Distributing veggies evenly ensures they cook properly alongside the meat while contributing their flavors throughout.
In a separate bowl, combine low-sodium beef broth with tomato paste until well blended. Pour this mixture over the meat and vegetables in your crockpot to ensure even distribution of liquids across all ingredients.
Sprinkle thyme over everything inside your crockpot followed by additional salt and pepper if desired. Stir gently but thoroughly so every ingredient is coated with seasoning for maximum taste.
Cover your crockpot with its lid and set it on low heat for about 8 hours or high heat for about 4 hours. Cooking time may vary based on individual slow cooker models; adjust accordingly based on doneness preference.
After cooking time has elapsed, check if meat is fork-tender by gently pulling apart pieces using two forks. If it’s not tender enough yet—continue cooking additional 30 minutes on low heat until desired texture is reached.