Slow-Cooker Beef Stew

Take the time up front to make a thick gravy and you'll love how rich and delicious it makes this slow-cooked stew. Even though the caraway is optional, we recommend giving it a try- it's a simple way to add something special to a classic.

TIME & SERVINGS

YIELDS:10 SERVING(S)
PREP TIME:20 MINUTES
COOK TIME:8 1/3 HOURS
 

INGREDIENT

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
1 teaspoon sweet paprika, plus more for garnish
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/3 cup all-purpose flour, plus more for coating
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound small white potatoes, halved
1/2 pound cremini mushrooms, halved
3 medium carrots, cut into 1-inch chunks
1 medium onion, chopped
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup red wine
2 cups low-sodium beef broth
3 sprigs fresh thyme
1 teaspoon caraway seeds, optional
1/2 cup loosely packed parsley leaves, chopped
 

INSTRUCTIONS(STEPS)

  • Step 1
    2 tablespoons of the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook undisturbed until it begins to brown, about 3 minutes. Continue to cook, turning the beef as needed, until mostly browned, about 3 minutes more. Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the beef to the insert of a 6-quart slow cooker; add the potatoes, mushrooms, carrots and onions and stir to combine.
  • Step 2
    Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil in the skillet over medium heat. Add the tomato paste and stir until the oil begins to turn brick-red, about 1 minute. Add the flour and wine and whisk until thick (it's OK if there are some lumps). Add the beef broth, thyme, caraway if using, 1/2 teaspoon salt and a few grinds of pepper and bring to a simmer, whisking; continue simmering and whisking until the gravy is smooth and thick, about 4 minutes.
  • Step 3
    Pour the gravy into the slow cooker, cover and cook on low for 8 hours. The meat and vegetables should be tender.
    Season with salt and pepper and stir in the parsley. Serve the stew in bowls with dollops of sour cream and a sprinkle of paprika.
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