Classic Beef Stew

A proper British beef stew with tender chunks of meat, root veg, and a rich gravy. The ultimate comfort food.

Ingredients

• 500g diced beef (stewing steak)
• 2 onions, roughly chopped
• 3 carrots, peeled and chunked
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 2 sticks celery, sliced
• 2 tbsp tomato puree
• 1 beef stock cube dissolved in 400ml boiling water
• 1 tbsp plain flour
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method

1. Toss the beef in flour and season with salt and pepper.
2. Layer the potatoes and carrots in the bottom of the slow cooker.
3. Add the onions and celery on top.
4. Place the floured beef over the vegetables.
5. Mix the stock, tomato puree, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme together. Pour over everything.
6. Cook on Low for 8 hours or High for 5-6 hours until the beef is tender and the gravy has thickened.
7. Give it a good stir, taste for seasoning, and serve.

Tips

For a richer stew, brown the beef in a hot pan before adding to the slow cooker. A splash of red wine in the stock works wonders too.