Rustic Farmhouse Beef Stew Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of Rustic Farmhouse Beef Stew to warm your soul on a chilly day. This comforting dish brings together tender chunks of beef, wholesome vegetables, and a rich, savory broth that simmers to perfection. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly meal or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is a timeless classic that embodies the essence of home-cooked comfort, much like popular crockpot beef tips or a tender crock pot chuck roast.

Growing up, the aroma of a slow-cooked stew was a staple in my kitchen, filling the house with warmth and anticipation. This slow cooker beef stew recipe is inspired by those nostalgic moments, offering a rustic twist with simple, farm-fresh ingredients. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a satisfying meal waiting for you, thanks to the ease of crockpot pot roast methods.

With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dish is ideal for anyone seeking crockpot recipes beef lovers adore. Let’s dive into how to create this delightful meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Recipe Overview

Cuisine: American Comfort Food

Category: Main Dish, Stew

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 8 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)

Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes (low) or 4 hours 20 minutes (high)

Servings: 6-8

What You’ll Need

To craft the perfect Rustic Farmhouse Beef Stew, each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. Here’s a breakdown of the key components and their purpose in this hearty dish, ideal for fans of slow cooker pot roast recipes.

• Beef Chuck Roast: The star of the stew, this cut becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked, similar to a classic beef pot roast. It absorbs the broth’s flavors beautifully.
• Vegetables: Potatoes, carrots, and celery add heartiness and natural sweetness, creating a balanced meal in one pot.
• Onion and Garlic: These aromatics form the flavor base, enhancing the savory depth of the stew.
• Beef Broth: The liquid foundation that ties everything together, providing richness and moisture.
• Tomato Paste: Adds a subtle tang and umami, deepening the color and taste of the broth.
• Herbs and Spices: Thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves infuse earthy notes, making this stew feel like a warm hug.

Gather these fresh components for a hearty Rustic Farmhouse Beef Stew

INGREDIENTS

• – 2.5 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• – 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• – 2 tablespoons olive oil
• – 1 large yellow onion, diced
• – 3 cloves garlic, minced
• – 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
• – 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• – 2 stalks celery, sliced
• – 4 cups beef broth
• – 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• – 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• – 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• – 2 bay leaves
• – Salt and pepper to taste

PREPARATION

1. Start by coating the beef cubes with 3 tablespoons of flour. This helps thicken the stew and gives the meat a nice crust when seared.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, searing for about 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Transfer to your crock pot slow cooker.
3. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and saute for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute. Scrape this mixture into the crockpot.
4. Add the carrots, potatoes, and celery to the crockpot, layering them over the beef and onions for this crockpot roast recipe.
5. In a bowl, whisk together 4 cups of beef broth with 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Pour this over the ingredients in the crockpot.
6. Season with 1 teaspoon each of thyme and rosemary, and toss in 2 bay leaves. Add salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.
8. Remove the bay leaves before serving. Stir well and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.

NUTRITION INFORMATION

• Calories: 380 per serving
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 15g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fiber: 5g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Tips for the Best Beef Stew

For the most flavorful Rustic Farmhouse Beef Stew, don’t skip the searing step. Browning the beef locks in juices and adds a depth of flavor that can’t be achieved otherwise. If you’re short on time, you can skip it, but it’s highly recommended for that rich, caramelized taste.

Choosing the Right Cut of Beef

When making crockpot beef tips or stew, opt for a chuck roast. This cut is marbled with fat, which breaks down during slow cooking, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Avoid leaner cuts like sirloin, as they can become tough over long cooking times.

Vegetable Variations

Feel free to customize your stew with other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips. For a twist on traditional beef pot roast, add green beans or peas in the last 30 minutes of cooking to maintain their vibrant color and texture.

Thickening Your Stew

If you prefer a thicker broth for your slow cooker beef stew, mix a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 2 tablespoons cold water, then stir it into the stew during the last 15 minutes of cooking. This creates a hearty, gravy-like consistency.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This stew stores beautifully, making it a great make-ahead meal. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the consistency.

Freezing for Later

For longer storage, freeze portions of your crockpot pot roast stew in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to enjoy a quick, comforting meal on a busy day.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I make this stew on the stovetop instead of a crockpot?

Absolutely! For a stovetop version of this Rustic Farmhouse Beef Stew, follow the same searing and sautéing steps in a large Dutch oven. Then, add all ingredients, cover, and simmer on low heat for about 2.5-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender. This method works well if you don’t have a crock pot slow cooker handy.

Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Yes, while chuck roast is ideal for slow cooker pot roast recipes, you can substitute with beef brisket or stew meat. Just ensure the cut has enough fat to stay tender during long cooking. Leaner meats may dry out, so adjust cooking times as needed.

How can I make this stew gluten-free?

To adapt this Rustic Farmhouse Beef Stew for a gluten-free diet, skip the flour coating on the beef or use a gluten-free alternative like rice flour. Double-check that your beef broth is gluten-free, as some brands may contain wheat-based additives.

Can I add wine to the stew for extra flavor?

Adding a splash of red wine can elevate the flavor of your crockpot roast recipes. Use about 1 cup of a dry red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon, in place of some of the beef broth. Add it when you pour in the liquid ingredients for a deeper, more complex taste.

Savor the warmth of this hearty Rustic Farmhouse Beef Stew on a cozy evening