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–+ servings

Slow Cooker Beef and Root Vegetable Stew with Balsamic and Smoked Paprika

This beef stew is made using a slow cooker, featuring tender chunks of beef, seasonal root vegetables, and flavorful seasonings. The dish develops a rich, hearty texture with a deep brown gravy and a colorful, chunky appearance, highlighting the earthy vegetables and savory meat infused with smoky and tangy notes.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
Calories: 420kcal
Author: James Taylor
Servings: 6

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  • 3 pounds beef stew meat cut into chunks
  • 4 large carrots peeled and sliced
  • 3 parsnips parsnips peeled and sliced
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar for rich depth
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika adds smoky richness
  • 1 tablespoon oil for searing
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  • Begin by heating the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef chunks until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes, then transfer to the slow cooker.
  • Next, add chopped onions, sliced carrots, and sliced parsnips to the skillet, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and release a fragrant aroma.
  • Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, and tomato paste, cooking for another minute until fragrant and the tomato paste darkens slightly.
  • Pour in the balsamic vinegar, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet to incorporate rich flavor, then turn off the heat.
  • Transfer the sautéed vegetables along with the vinegar and flavorful bits into the slow cooker, spreading them evenly over the beef.
  • Pour the beef broth over the ingredients, then season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  • Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors are melded beautifully.
  • Once cooked, remove the lid and check the seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper as needed.
  • Stir the stew gently to combine, then serve hot, enjoying the hearty chunks of meat and colorful vegetables in a flavorful, smoky gravy.

Nutrition

Calories: 420kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 40g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 130mg | Sodium: 900mg | Potassium: 800mg | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin C: 15mg | Calcium: 40mg | Iron: 4.5mg