Cranberry Beef Stew

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Servings: 8 Difficulty: Intermediate
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A rich, slow-cooked beef stew with tart cranberries and savory herbs
Cranberry Beef Stew recipe image
Cranberry Beef Stew recipe image
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Cranberry Beef Stew

Author: chefs-mate Cooking Method: Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 8 Calories: 18.6

Description

This hearty Cranberry Beef Stew is a comforting winter classic that balances tender chunks of beef with the bright, tart acidity of fresh cranberries. Slow-cooked to perfection, the beef becomes fall-apart tender, absorbing the deep flavors of red wine, thyme, and savory broth. The addition of mushrooms and a splash of Madeira or sherry adds a luxurious depth, while a cornstarch slurry creates a velvety, glossy sauce that coats every bite. It is an ideal dish for cozy weeknight dinners or special family gatherings. Serve it over mashed potatoes or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. This recipe offers a sophisticated twist on traditional stew, delivering a robust, aromatic experience that warms the soul.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Place thinly sliced shallots, minced garlic, quartered mushrooms, unthawed cranberries, and the bay leaf into the bottom of a 3-quart or larger electric slow cooker.
  2. Toss the cubed beef with all-purpose flour until evenly coated, then add the beef to the slow cooker on top of the vegetables.
  3. Sprinkle the beef with brown sugar, black pepper, and dry thyme, distributing the seasoning evenly.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine, beef broth, Madeira (or cream sherry), and tomato paste until smooth.
  5. Pour the liquid mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker.
  6. Cover the cooker and set it to the Low setting. Cook until the beef is very tender when pierced with a fork, approximately 8 to 9 hours.
  7. Remove the bay leaf and discard it.
  8. In a small cup, blend the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until no lumps remain.
  9. Stir the cornstarch mixture into the stew to thicken the sauce.
  10. Increase the slow cooker setting to High. Cover and cook for an additional 20 minutes, stirring every 5 to 10 minutes, until the sauce is thickened and glossy.
  11. Taste the stew and season with salt as needed.
  12. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 8

Amount Per Serving
Calories 18.6kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.1g1%
Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 2.1mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 4.1g2%
Dietary Fiber 0.3g2%
Sugars 0.1g
Protein 0.8g2%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: beef stew, cranberry, slow cooker, comfort food, winter dinner, beef round, red wine sauce, mushrooms, thyme, make ahead, family meal, hearty, slow cooked beef, holiday side, protein rich
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