“Bring restaurant-quality Julia Child comfort to your home without standing over the stove all day! The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting for this rich French stew.”

Directions and Instructions

1. Begin by seasoning the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper, ensuring each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Working in batches, brown the beef cubes on all sides until they’re a beautiful golden brown. Once done, transfer them to a slow cooker.
3. In the same skillet, add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, allowing the smoky flavor to infuse the dish. Once crispy, remove the bacon and add it to the slow cooker as well.
4. Add the onions, carrots, and garlic to the skillet, sautéing until the onions are translucent and fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste, letting it caramelize slightly for extra depth of flavor.
5. Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release those delicious browned bits. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then carefully transfer it to the slow cooker.
6. Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaves to the slow cooker, stirring gently to combine everything. Cover and set it to cook on low for 8 hours, or until the beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender.
7. About 30 minutes before serving, add the quartered mushrooms to the slow cooker. For a thicker sauce, whisk the flour with a little water to create a slurry and stir it into the stew.
8. Once finished, remove the bay leaves, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve this hearty dish warm, alongside crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes.

Notes or Tips

For a richer flavor, consider using a high-quality full-bodied red wine. If you prefer a thicker sauce, feel free to adjust the flour as needed. Leftovers taste even better the next day, making this dish perfect for meal prep!

Cooking Techniques

This recipe uses a combination of browning and slow cooking, which enhances the meat’s flavor and tenderness. Browning the beef and bacon first creates a flavorful base, while the slow cooker melds the flavors beautifully over time, resulting in a deeply satisfying meal.