Description
This Slow Cooked Scottish Beef Stew is a comforting dish for chilly evenings. It features tender beef, earthy vegetables, and aromatic herbs simmered slowly to create a rich and satisfying meal. This recipe is simple to prepare and offers a taste of traditional Scottish home cooking.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 onions, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Cut the beef into cubes and chop the vegetables as specified.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a tablespoon of oil. Brown the beef cubes on all sides. This step enhances flavor but is optional.
- Place in the Slow Cooker: Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker and add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, diced onions, and minced garlic.
- Mix the Liquid Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaf. Mix well.
- Add to the Slow Cooker: Pour the liquid mixture over the meat and vegetables in the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.
- Season: Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as necessary.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 7 to 8 hours, or high for 4 to 5 hours, until the beef is tender.
- Finish Cooking: Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle fresh parsley over the stew for a pop of color.
Notes
- Use Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, select high-quality beef chuck and fresh vegetables. This truly enhances the stew’s richness.
- Seasoning Adjustment: Remember to taste as you cook. Adjust the salt and pepper levels to personalize the flavor to your liking.
- Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to try other herbs, such as rosemary or oregano, to add further depth to this slow cooked Scottish beef stew.
- Thicken the Stew: If you prefer a thicker stew, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water. Stir this mixture into the stew in the last hour of cooking.
- Add Depth with Mushrooms: Incorporating sliced mushrooms can add a delightful umami flavor to this hearty slow cooked beef.
- Serving Vessel: Use rustic bowls or deep plates to give an authentic feel. A bread bowl adds a fun twist!
- Accompaniments: Serve with crusty bread, buttered rolls, or even mashed potatoes for a delightful pairing with your stewed Scottish beef.
- Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley can brighten up the dish and make it visually appealing.
- Pairing Drinks: A glass of red wine can complement the stew exceptionally well. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a hearty apple cider.
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen even more after sitting!
- Storage: Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: This slow cooked Scottish beef stew freezes well. Keep it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly on the stove or in the microwave.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 to 8 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Scottish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: Not specified
- Sodium: Not specified
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: Not specified
- Unsaturated Fat: Not specified
- Trans Fat: Not specified
- Carbohydrates: Not specified
- Fiber: Not specified
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: Not specified