Beef stew with wine in a slow cooker Crock Pot

Beef stew with wine in a slow cooker is a recipe that combines intense flavors and rich textures of slowly cooked meat. This dish is not just a meal, but a culinary experience that will fill your home with inviting aromas and make you feel as if you are in the heart of a traditional kitchen. Whether you are preparing a special dinner or simply want to indulge in a comforting meal, this stew is the perfect choice.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 7-8 hours
Total time: 7-8 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 500 g beef chuck (choose meat with moderate fat content for a more tender texture)
- 4 carrots (preferably younger for a sweeter taste)
- 1 piece of celery (opt for fresh celery with green leaves)
- 3 onions (yellow or white onion works great)
- 5 cloves of garlic (for a deep flavor)
- 400 ml red wine (choose a quality wine that is good to drink)
- 1 sprig of rosemary (fresh if possible)
- 1 sprig of thyme (in winter, you can use dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil (for browning the meat)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by patting the beef chuck dry with paper towels. This will help achieve better browning. Cut the meat into cubes about 3-4 cm. Choose a good, sharp knife to make this task easier.

2. Browning the meat: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the meat cubes and brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This step will add depth of flavor to your stew, so don't skip it!

3. Preparing the vegetables: While the meat is browning, chop the carrots, celery, and onions into small cubes. The garlic can be minced or left whole, depending on your preference. It's important that the vegetables are cut evenly so they cook uniformly.

4. Assembling in the slow cooker: Once the meat is browned, transfer it to the slow cooker. Then, add the chopped vegetables along with salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme. Pour the wine and 100 ml of water over all the ingredients. The remaining olive oil can be added now to enhance the flavors.

5. Slow cooking: Place the lid on the slow cooker and set it to the 'low' setting. Let the stew simmer slowly for 7-8 hours. During this time, the meat will become extremely tender, and the flavors will meld together to create a delicious dish.

6. Serving: Once cooking is complete, check that the meat is cooked properly and the vegetables are tender. You can adjust the salt and pepper to taste. Serve the stew hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or a slice of lemon for a flavor contrast.

Helpful tips:
- Ingredient variations: You can add potatoes to make the stew even heartier or mushrooms for an extra umami kick. You can also substitute red wine with white wine, although the flavors will differ.
- Serving: This delicious stew pairs perfectly with a serving of mashed potatoes or with fresh crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce.
- Storing leftovers: If you have leftovers, the stew keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be frozen for later consumption.

Nutritional benefits:
Beef is an excellent source of protein, iron, and B vitamins, essential for a balanced diet. The added vegetables provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to a healthy and nourishing dish.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use beef from other cuts? Yes, you can also use other cuts of meat, such as chuck or neck, but the cooking time may vary. Make sure to check the texture of the meat.
- Can I use a different type of wine? Certainly, wine adds depth, but you can experiment with different types of wines, including white or rosé, to achieve varied results.
- Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet? Yes, this stew is gluten-free, as long as the wine used is certified gluten-free.

Beef stew with wine in a slow cooker is more than just a simple recipe; it is an invitation to gather with loved ones around a table full of warmth and joy. Savor every bite and let yourself be carried away by the rich and comforting flavors!