How to Make Beef Stew with Dumplings in Slow Cooker
If you’re looking for a comforting and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare, look no further than beef stew with dumplings in a slow cooker. This hearty dish combines tender chunks of beef with rich, flavorful gravy, all topped off with fluffy dumplings that soak up the savory juices. The best part? You can have this delicious meal ready to serve with minimal effort, thanks to the convenience of a slow cooker. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make beef stew with dumplings in a slow cooker.
Ingredients
Before you start, gather the following ingredients:
– 2 pounds of beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes
– 1 can (10 ounces) of beef broth
– 1 cup of red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
– 2 cups of all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons of baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 2 tablespoons of shortening or butter
– 1/2 cup of milk
Instructions
1.
Prep the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
2.
Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the diced onions and cook until they’re translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3.
Combine the Ingredients:
In the slow cooker, combine the onions, garlic, tomatoes, beef broth, red wine (if using), thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Add the browned beef cubes to the slow cooker.
4.
Cook on Low:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender.
5.
Prepare the Dumplings:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the shortening or butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the milk until the dough is just combined.
6.
Shape the Dumplings:
Using a spoon or your hands, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough over the top of the stew. Be sure not to overcrowd the slow cooker.
7.
Finish Cooking:
Cover the slow cooker and continue cooking on low for another 30 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and puffy.
8.
Serve:
Once the dumplings are done, give the stew a final stir and serve hot. Enjoy your homemade beef stew with dumplings in a slow cooker!
This slow cooker beef stew with dumplings is a perfect meal for any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to a gathering with friends. With its rich flavors and minimal effort, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!
