If you're looking for a comforting meal that fills both the stomach and the soul, this Hearty Homestead Stew is your answer. With tender chunks of beef and a medley of vegetables simmered to perfection, it's the ultimate dish to warm up cold days or bring a family together around the dinner table.
The star of this stew is the beef chuck roast, chosen for its rich flavor and tenderness after slow cooking. Carrots add natural sweetness and color, while potatoes provide heartiness. Onions and garlic are the aromatic base, enhancing all other flavors. Beef broth and red wine create a deep, robust backdrop, and tomato paste adds a rich umami depth. A splash of Worcestershire sauce ties it all together, while thyme and rosemary lend herbal notes. The bay leaf subtly infuses the stew as it cooks.
This stew pairs wonderfully with a crusty loaf of bread to mop up every last drop. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also complement the rich flavors. If you're feeling indulgent, top the stew with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a fresh finish.
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef chunks, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Brown them on all sides; this step locks in the juices and flavor. Once browned, transfer them to your slow cooker.
Using the same skillet, toss in the onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3 minutes. These aromatics will pick up the browned bits left behind in the skillet, enhancing the stew's flavor. Transfer them to the slow cooker as well.
Next, add the carrots and potatoes into the slow cooker along with the beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Sprinkle in the thyme, rosemary, and add the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 8 hours. The low, slow heat will turn the beef tender and meld all the flavors beautifully. Before serving, remove the bay leaf and give it a taste, adjusting the seasoning if necessary.