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Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Carrots, Sweet Potato, and Herbs Recipe

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4.2 from 5 reviews

A hearty and comforting Slow Cooker Beef Stew featuring tender beef, sweet potatoes, carrots, and aromatic herbs, slow-cooked to perfection for maximum flavor and tenderness.

  • Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Beef and Vegetables

  • 1 lb beef stew meat
  • 2 cups carrots (peeled and chopped)
  • 1 cup white sweet potato (peeled and chopped)
  • 1/2 onion (diced)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup frozen peas (omit for AIP)

Broth and Seasonings

  • 5 cups beef broth
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tsp thyme
  • 2 tbsp parsley, chopped (plus additional for topping)
  • Arrowroot starch (about 1/2 cup broth mixed with arrowroot to thicken, optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Add the beef stew meat to the bottom of the slow cooker. Then add the peeled and chopped carrots, white sweet potatoes, diced onion, minced garlic, and frozen peas on top of the beef.
  2. Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour the beef broth and balsamic vinegar over the beef and vegetables. Sprinkle in the thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything gently to evenly distribute the ingredients and seasonings.
  3. Cook on Low: Place the lid on the slow cooker and set it to cook on low heat for 7 to 8 hours, or alternatively on high for 3 to 4 hours. During this time, the beef will become tender, reaching an internal temperature around 160°F, and the vegetables will soften.
  4. Thicken the Broth (Optional): If a thicker stew broth is preferred, remove approximately 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid from the slow cooker. Whisk in arrowroot starch until smooth and pour the mixture back into the slow cooker. Continue cooking for about 20 more minutes to allow the stew to thicken.
  5. Finish and Serve: Remove any bay leaves if used (none specified in ingredients but suggested to remove), then adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the beef stew topped with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Notes

  • Frozen peas can be omitted for Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) diet compliance.
  • Arrowroot starch is optional for thickening and can be substituted with cornstarch or flour if preferred.
  • Cooking times vary depending on slow cooker models; check for tenderness and doneness before serving.
  • For an extra layer of flavor, consider searing the beef before adding to the slow cooker but this step is optional.
  • Balsamic vinegar adds a subtle sweetness and depth; it can be omitted or replaced with apple cider vinegar for a different profile.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 hours
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat