I cooked up some Beef Stew in a croc pot for about 5 hours. My problem was that the meat was still wasn't as tender as I had hoped. Does that generally mean I should have let it cook it longer? Also, I seared the meat before putting it in.
Someone suggested I use canola oil versus olive oil (which I used). Stating it would sear the meat better because it can cook at a higher tempature. Does it really make that big a difference?
Thanks in advance
I would think cooking times depends on the type/size, of beef used in your recipe.Some cuts will require a longer cooking time.
Here's my recipe.I usually double it and take some to my neighbors.Or freeze some for my lazy days use.I'd also suggest that before you add the cornstarch (for your thickener) that you adjust the seasonings to your liking.
Beef Stew
5 pounds of stew meat 2"inch chunks
Olive oil
10 small russet Potatoes
1 whole yellow onion
5 carrots
1 large green bell pepper
2 Bay leaves
4 cups beef boulion.or beef broth
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
3 tablespoon of kitchen bouquet
2 teaspoons oregano
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon parsley flakes
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
1/4 cup cornstarch
Water as needed
In a large skillet or roasting pan,add the olive oil.stew meat.Cook on medium heat,brown stew meat on all sides.
Remove from heat,and transfer to a large roasting pan,or stock pot. Add Worcestershire sauce,kitchen bouquet, beef boulion.or beef broth,plus 2 cups of water to the browned stew meat. Add oregano,parsley,paprika,salt & pepper,and bay leaves.
Cover and simmer on low for 2 hours.Checking often.Add more water if necessary
Wash and peel potatoes,then cut them into quarters.
wash and peel carrots cut into 1/2" inch chunks.
Peel and cut onions to 1/4" inch pieces.
wash and take out the seeds from the bell peppers,cut into 1/4 inch chunks.
If the meat is tender add all the veggies,to the stew meat.
Cook until they are all fork tender,about 2 hours.
Bring the stew to a boil,stirring often.
In a small bowl combine the cornstarch and 1/2 cup water.
Stir to remove any lumps.Add to the boiling stew.
Stir,until the stew is thickened to your preference.Add more cornstarch if necessary.
Remove from heat.
Serves 8
Good luck
Munky.