Slow Cooker Low-Carb Mediterranean Beef Stew with Rosemary and Balsamic Vinegar
This recipe uses a slow cooker to create a low-carb Mediterranean beef stew with rosemary and balsamic vinegar. It's perfect for a hearty and flavorful meal.
This recipe uses a slow cooker to create a low-carb Mediterranean beef stew with rosemary and balsamic vinegar. It's perfect for a hearty and flavorful meal.
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 pieces
- 1-2 t olive oil (depends on your pan)
- 8 oz. sliced mushrooms
- 2 pieces (about 2-3 cups meat, for stove-top cooking i mig
- 1 cup beef stock (use 2 cups for stovetop cooking)
- 1 can (14.5 oz.) diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 can black olives cut in half or fourths
- 1/2 cup garlic cloves cut in thin slices (optional, but good)
- 2 tablespoon hopped fresh rosemary (or use 1 t dried cracked ro
- 2 tablespoon hopped fresh parsley (or use 1 t dried parsley)
- 1 tablespoon or more)
- fresh ground black pepper and salt to taste
- Carbohydrate 14.9496166889973 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 3.30365000037842 g
- Fiber 3.27495000515852 g
- Protein 2.88596000379138 g
- Saturated Fat 0.44189716672552 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (193g)
- Sodium 997.385333978882 mg
- Sugar 11.6746666838387 g
- Trans Fat 0.225996166781724 g
- Calories 93 calories
Step-by-step
- Heat small amount of olive oil in heavy frying pan over medium-high heat, add mushrooms and cook several minutes, until starting to brown. Add mushrooms to slow cooker.
- Add a little more oil, then cook diced onions about 5 minutes, or until starting to brown. Add onions to slow cooker.
- Add a little more oil again, then add diced beef and brown well, about 10-15 minutes. Don't rush the browning step. Add beef to the slow cooker.
- Add 1 cup beef stock to the pan and simmer a few minutes until slightly reduced, scraping off all browned bits, then add that stock to the slow cooker.
- Add diced tomatoes and juice, tomato sauce, balsamic vinegar, olives, garlic, rosemary, parsley, capers, and a little black pepper. Stir gently to combine, then put lid on Crockpot and cook 6-8 hours on low.
- (You could cook this 3-4 hours on high, but for a recipe with large pieces of garlic like this I prefer the low setting.)
- Season to taste with salt and more fresh ground black pepper and serve hot.
- If you do all the advance preparation the night before and put the combined ingredient in the refrigerator overnight, this could cook as long as 10 hours in the Crockpot while you’re at work.
- Manufacturers don’t recommend putting crockery liner with prepared ingredients in the refrigerator; store in another container so contents stay cold, then put in Crockpot in the morning.
- Stovetop Instructions: Follow all the preparation steps as outlined, putting ingredients in heavy dutch oven type pan. Add one cup additional beef stock. Simmer on very low heat about 2 hours.
A Weeknight Wonder: My Go-To Slow Cooker Beef Stew
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Dinner prep often feels like a race against the clock, a frantic scramble to get something nutritious and delicious on the table before bedtime. That’s why my slow cooker has become my absolute best friend in the kitchen. It's a lifesaver, transforming mundane weeknights into opportunities for flavorful, comforting meals without the stress of constant attention. This Slow Cooker Low-Carb Mediterranean Beef Stew is a perfect example. It’s a recipe I’ve perfected over time, adapting it to fit my family's preferences and my perpetually busy schedule.
The beauty of this stew lies in its simplicity and versatility. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen over hours of gentle simmering. The result is a rich, intensely aromatic stew that's incredibly satisfying. It's low-carb friendly, making it a great option for those watching their intake, and the Mediterranean flavors – the bright tang of balsamic vinegar, the herbaceous notes of rosemary, the salty burst of olives – make it feel like a culinary escape, even on a hectic Tuesday night. I often prepare the ingredients the night before, tossing them into the slow cooker first thing in the morning, so it’s ready when I am. The aroma that fills the house as it simmers is simply irresistible, a promise of deliciousness that makes even the longest workdays feel a little less overwhelming.
I’ve experimented with countless variations of beef stew over the years, but this one has become a firm family favourite. The combination of tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and the vibrant Mediterranean flavours is simply unbeatable. It's hearty enough to satisfy even the biggest appetites, yet light enough to not feel too heavy. It’s the kind of meal that evokes feelings of warmth and comfort, transforming a simple dinner into a moment of connection and shared joy. And the best part? Cleanup is a breeze! Just toss the liner in the dishwasher and you’re done. It’s that easy. I love that the leftovers are just as delicious the next day, too, perfect for packed lunches or a quick and easy second dinner.
This recipe isn’t just for busy weeknights; it’s perfect for entertaining, too. Its rich, deep flavors and impressive presentation make it a stunning centerpiece for any gathering. The simple elegance of the dish belies the ease of its preparation. It’s the kind of recipe that will impress your guests without requiring hours spent slaving over a hot stove. So, whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a show-stopping dish for a party, this slow cooker beef stew is a recipe that will undoubtedly become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Beyond the Recipe: This stew is a fantastic starting point for culinary exploration. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables – zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant would all be delicious additions. You could also play with the herbs, adding a touch of oregano or thyme for an extra layer of complexity. Don’t be afraid to experiment! The beauty of cooking is in its adaptability. Make it your own and enjoy the delicious results.
Serving Suggestions: I love to serve this stew with a side of crusty bread, although for a truly low-carb approach, you could enjoy it on its own or with a simple green salad. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a beautiful finishing touch.
Make it Your Own: The great thing about this recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to adapt it to your own tastes and preferences. If you prefer a spicier stew, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. If you want a richer flavor, use bone-in beef. The possibilities are endless! The key is to have fun and let your creativity shine.
