Slow-Cooked Beef Stew with Egg Noodles

Introduction:

There’s nothing quite like a hearty beef stew to warm the soul and satisfy your hunger. This recipe features tender beef chunks simmered to perfection in a rich and savory gravy, paired with buttery egg noodles for the ultimate comfort meal. Whether you’re preparing dinner for a busy weekday or a cozy weekend gathering, this slow-cooked dish is guaranteed to impress.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Beef Stew:

• 2 lbs (900 g) beef stew meat, cut into chunks
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 2 tbsp flour (optional, for thickening)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Egg Noodles:

• 12 oz (340 g) egg noodles
• 2 tbsp butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef:
   • Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef chunks with salt and pepper, then sear them in the skillet until browned on all sides. Transfer the beef to a slow cooker.
2. Build the Flavor:
   • In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, thyme, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the Liquid:
   • Pour in the beef broth and bring it to a simmer. Scrape up any browned bits from the skillet for extra flavor. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker with the beef.
4. Slow Cook:
   • Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours (or high for 3-4 hours) until the beef is fork-tender. If you prefer a thicker gravy, whisk 2 tbsp of flour with 1/4 cup water and stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
5. Cook the Noodles:
   • About 20 minutes before serving, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and toss with butter.
6. Serve:
   • Serve the beef stew over a bed of egg noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Enjoy this comforting dish with a slice of crusty bread or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal!