"abdul rahim" > wrote in message
om...
> crockpot does a nice job of softening up the beef, carrots, and potatoes,
but
> what can you add to flavor beef stew?
>
> tastes kind of bland with just salt and pepper. any spicing/flavoring
ideas? thanks

1. Start with a flavorful cut of beef (chuck or 7 bone roast is nice)
2. Dredge the meat in seasoned flour (salt and pepper at this stage)
3. Brown all sides of the meat in hot oil till brown and nicely crusted
and set aside.
4. Add a mirepoix (diced celery, carrot and onion) and sauté till soft
and the onions are translucent.
5. Deglaze the pan with some red wine and/or beef stock
6. Return the meat to the pot and add a bouquet garni (bay leaf, parsley,
and about any other herbs you favor)
7. Add stock or a mixture of stock and red wine to cover as well as some
tomato sauce (For Brown color).
8. Add more chunky vegetables to your liking (carrot, onion, mushrooms,
turnip hold on the potatoes till later)
9. Cover and cook over low heat until almost tender
10. Add potatoes and cook till tender
11. Adjust the seasoning. If you are not allergic ass some MSG, and/or
Worchester sauce and/or some soy sauce.

Bingo - Stew!

Dimitri