Prepare to be whisked away to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean with this soul-warming Mediterranean Olive Beef Stew. This dish is a perfect blend of tender beef, briny olives, and aromatic spices, all simmered together in a slow cooker for an effortless yet deeply flavorful meal. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner to share with family or a nutritious option for your weekly meal prep, this recipe is a standout among crockpot recipes slow cooker enthusiasts.
There’s something truly magical about the way the flavors meld together in this stew. The richness of the beef pairs beautifully with the tangy olives and earthy herbs, creating a dish that feels both comforting and exotic. If you’re a fan of healthy crockpot meals, you’ll appreciate how simple ingredients transform into a hearty feast with minimal effort.
Join me as we dive into this delightful recipe, perfect for anyone searching for slow cooker dinner recipes or beef recipes for dinner. Let’s get cooking and fill your home with the irresistible aroma of Mediterranean comfort food!
Imagine coming home after a long day to the inviting scent of a simmering pot of Mediterranean Olive Beef Stew. This dish captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine with its bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone who loves crock pot healthy meals but doesn’t want to sacrifice taste for convenience.
This stew is more than just a meal; it’s a journey through the vibrant culinary traditions of the Mediterranean. The combination of tender beef, green olives, and a medley of spices creates a harmony that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Plus, using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, making it one of the easiest crockpot dishes to prepare.
Whether you’re new to crock pot cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is designed to impress. It’s a wonderful addition to your collection of mediterranean beef & lentil soup-inspired dishes, offering a unique twist with the addition of olives. Let’s explore how to bring this comforting stew to life!
Recipe Overview
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Category: Main Dish, Stew
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours (on low) or 4 hours (on high)
Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes (on low) or 4 hours 15 minutes (on high)
Servings: 6-8
What You’ll Need
Creating this Mediterranean Olive Beef Stew requires a handful of simple yet impactful ingredients that each play a vital role in building the dish’s signature flavor:
- Beef Stew Meat: The heart of the dish, providing rich, tender protein that absorbs the surrounding flavors during slow cooking.
- Green Olives: Adds a briny, tangy note that’s quintessentially Mediterranean, balancing the richness of the beef.
- Tomatoes and Tomato Paste: Forms the base of the stew, offering a sweet and slightly acidic backdrop.
- Onions and Garlic: Essential aromatics that build depth and a savory foundation.
- Carrots and Potatoes: Hearty vegetables that add texture and make the stew a complete meal.
- Spices (Cumin, Paprika, Cinnamon): A warming blend that infuses the stew with Mediterranean flair.
- Beef Broth: The liquid base that ties everything together, ensuring a luscious, spoonable consistency.
Fresh components ready to create a hearty Mediterranean Olive Beef Stew
INGREDIENTS
- – 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- – 1 cup pitted green olives, drained
- – 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- – 2 tbsp tomato paste
- – 1 large onion, chopped
- – 3 cloves garlic, minced
- – 3 medium carrots, sliced into rounds
- – 3 medium potatoes, cut into chunks
- – 4 cups beef broth
- – 1 tsp ground cumin
- – 1 tsp smoked paprika
- – 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- – 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
- – Salt and pepper to taste
- – Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
PREPARATION
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat in batches, searing for about 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Transfer the beef to your slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant, then transfer to the slow cooker.
- Add the sliced carrots, potato chunks, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, green olives, cumin, smoked paprika, and cinnamon to the slow cooker. Pour in the 4 cups beef broth and stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.
- Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or over a bed of couscous to soak up the flavorful broth.
NUTRITION INFORMATION
- Calories: 380 per serving
- Protein: 28g per serving
- Carbohydrates: 30g per serving
- Fat: 16g per serving
- Sodium: 720mg per serving
- Servings: Based on 6 servings
Why Use a Slow Cooker for This Stew?
Using a slow cooker for this Mediterranean Olive Beef Stew allows the flavors to develop over time, resulting in tender beef and a richly infused broth. It’s a hands-off method perfect for busy days, aligning with the best crockpot recipes slow cooker practices.
What Makes This Stew Mediterranean?
The Mediterranean flair comes from ingredients like green olives, warm spices such as cumin and cinnamon, and the use of olive oil. These elements are staples in the region’s cuisine, distinguishing this dish from other beef recipes for dinner.
Can I Add Lentils to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Adding lentils can transform this into a hybrid of mediterranean beef & lentil soup. Simply toss in 1 cup of rinsed green or brown lentils during the initial prep, and they’ll cook down beautifully with the stew.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the consistency. This makes it a great option for crock pot healthy meals throughout the week.
Can I Freeze Mediterranean Olive Beef Stew?
Yes, this stew freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, ensuring it remains a convenient choice among slow cooker dinner recipes.
What to Serve With This Stew?
Pair this stew with crusty bread, couscous, or even rice to soak up the delicious broth. A side salad with a lemony dressing complements the rich flavors, making it a well-rounded addition to your crockpot dishes repertoire.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I Make This Stew on the Stovetop Instead of a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can! Sear the beef and sauté the aromatics as instructed, then simmer everything in a large pot over low heat for about 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. Add extra broth if needed. This method works well if you’re not using crock pot cooking equipment.
Are There Substitutes for Green Olives?
If green olives aren’t your favorite, try black olives or capers for a similar briny kick. Both options maintain the Mediterranean vibe of this Mediterranean Olive Beef Stew while offering a slight variation in flavor.
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Definitely! While stew meat is ideal, you can use chuck roast or brisket cut into cubes. These cuts are perfect for slow cooking and will yield tender results in healthy crockpot recipes like this one.
Savor the rich, comforting flavors of this Mediterranean Olive Beef Stew
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Olive Beef Stew is a testament to the beauty of slow-cooked meals, bringing together robust flavors and wholesome ingredients with minimal effort. It’s a fantastic addition to your rotation of slow cooker dinner recipes, offering warmth and comfort in every bite. Whether you’re a fan of crockpot dishes or just looking for new beef recipes for dinner, this stew will not disappoint.
Ready to give it a try? Gather your ingredients, set up your slow cooker, and let the magic happen. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments or tag me on social media—I’d love to see how your version turns out! For more inspiration, check out other crock pot healthy meals on my blog at example.com.
