beef stew recipe australia slow cooker

The Ultimate Beef Stew Recipe for Slow Cooker Enthusiasts in Australia

Are you tired of slaving away in the kitchen for hours to prepare a hearty beef stew? Look no further! This slow cooker beef stew recipe is specifically designed for Aussies who want to come home to a delicious, comforting meal without breaking a sweat. With minimal prep time and a hands-off approach, this recipe is perfect for busy individuals and families alike.

The Magic of Slow Cooking

Slow cookers have become a staple in many Australian households, and for good reason. These clever appliances allow you to throw all the ingredients together in the morning, and come home to a perfectly cooked meal in the evening. The low and slow cooking process breaks down the connective tissues in the beef, making it tender and fall-apart easy. Plus, the rich flavors of the stew have all day to meld together, resulting in a dish that's truly greater than the sum of its parts.

The Recipe

This beef stew recipe serves 4-6 people and can be easily customized to suit your tastes. Feel free to add or subtract ingredients as you see fit!

Ingredients:

• 1 kg beef chuck or brisket, cut into 2-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, and peas)
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

2. Add the beef cubes to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the browned beef from the skillet and set aside.

3. Add the mixed vegetables, red wine (if using), beef broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.

4. Add the browned beef to the slow cooker and stir to coat with the stew mixture.

5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.

6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs and crusty bread on the side, if desired.

Tips and Variations

For a richer stew, add 1-2 tablespoons of tomato paste to the slow cooker with the beef broth.

Replace the red wine with an equal amount of beef broth for a family-friendly option.

Experiment with different vegetables, such as sweet potatoes or parsnips, to add variety to the stew.

For a spicy kick, add 1-2 teaspoons of diced jalapeño peppers to the slow cooker.

This slow cooker beef stew recipe is a true Aussie classic, perfect for a chilly winter's night or a lazy Sunday afternoon. So why not give it a go and see for yourself why slow cooking is the way to go?