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If you’ve been dreaming of a hearty, soul-warming meal that’s also friendly to gluten sensitivities, this Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe has got your back. Picture tender chunks of beef melting in your mouth alongside vibrant carrots, creamy Yukon Gold potatoes, and a rich, savory broth that’s beautifully thickened without any gluten-containing ingredients. This stew is a comforting hug in a bowl, perfect for family dinners or cozy evenings, and it’s surprisingly straightforward to prepare without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s amazing how just a handful of essential ingredients can come together to create an unforgettable meal. Each one adds a unique layer—from the fragrant bay leaves and thyme that build depth to the Yukon Gold potatoes that offer a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Getting these essentials right makes a world of difference in the final stew.
- Beef stew meat (4 lbs): Choose quality cuts, cut into 1-2 inch cubes for perfect tender bites after slow cooking.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Divided use for browning beef and sautéing vegetables—this adds a beautiful caramelization and richness.
- Onion (1 large): Halved and sliced thin; it mellows and sweetens, creating a robust savory base.
- Carrots (4 medium): Peeled and cut into chunks for vibrant color and natural sweetness.
- Garlic (2 cloves): Minced for an aromatic punch that brings all flavors together.
- Yukon Gold potatoes (1 lb): Cut into chunks; these hold their shape and become luxuriously creamy.
- Frozen peas (1 cup): Added near the end for a pop of fresh color and a slight sweetness.
- Gluten-free flour (2-3 tablespoons): The perfect thickener that keeps this stew gluten-free without losing that velvety texture.
- Tomato paste (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle tang and deep umami layer to the broth.
- Red wine (1 cup): Or replace with extra beef broth; it enriches the stew with complexity and warmth.
- Gluten-free beef broth (3 cups): Low-sodium to control seasoning, this is the soul of the stew’s liquid base.
- Bay leaves (2): Impart a fragrant, herbal undertone throughout the slow cook.
- Thyme (4 sprigs fresh or 1 1/2 teaspoons dried): Adds an earthy depth that complements the beef beautifully.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to bring all flavors into balance.
- Salt pork (4 ounces): Trimmed of excess fat; it introduces a subtle richness and seasoning layer.
How to Make Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by patting your stew meat dry—this little step is key to achieving that gorgeous sear that locks in flavor. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a Dutch oven until shimmering, then brown half the beef cubes over high heat, turning occasionally to caramelize evenly. Do this carefully to avoid burning, then transfer to your slow cooker. Repeat the process with the remaining beef, ensuring every piece is cloaked in beautiful browned crusts.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
With the beef browned and resting, add a touch more olive oil if needed to your empty Dutch oven. Toss in the sliced onions and carrots, stirring and deglazing the pan to lift all those flavorful browned bits left behind by the beef. Cook until the onions soften and start to shimmer, about 3 to 4 minutes, releasing sweetness and building a hearty aromatic foundation.
Step 3: Add the Flour and Aromatics
Sprinkle the gluten-free flour over the vegetables, stirring constantly to avoid any dry spots—this step is essential to give your stew that luscious, thick texture without gluten-containing thickeners. Then, add minced garlic and tomato paste, letting the mixture cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds to a minute. This combo deepens the stew’s flavor profile beautifully.
Step 4: Deglaze and Simmer
Slowly pour in your chosen red wine or extra beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to bring up all those caramelized bits—the secret to intense flavor. Let the mixture simmer for a couple of minutes until it slightly reduces and thickens, then whisk in your gluten-free beef broth. This liquid melds all the flavors together and begins the stew’s rich, slow-cooked magic.
Step 5: Transfer and Add Herbs
Pour the aromatic broth mixture into the slow cooker with your browned beef. Add bay leaves, thyme sprigs, and the salt pork for a subtle, savory undertone. Give everything a good stir so all ingredients mingle, setting the stage for hours of flavor development.
Step 6: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover your slow cooker and let the stew work its magic on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This slow and gentle cooking tenderizes the beef until it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender and allows the herbs to fully infuse the broth with their fragrant notes.
Step 7: Add the Potatoes
Two hours before serving, fish out the salt pork and stir in your Yukon Gold potatoes. Continue cooking so the potatoes absorb some of the stew’s flavor and soften to creamy perfection without falling apart.
Step 8: Final Touch – Peas and Seasoning
About 30 minutes before mealtime, stir in frozen peas for a fresh burst of color and sweetness. Taste the stew and season with salt and pepper to your liking—start with about half a teaspoon each and adjust from there. Let everything warm through before you serve this wholesome, irresistible dish.
How to Serve Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your stew beautifully. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or thyme adds a fresh herbal note, brightening every spoonful. For a hint of indulgence, offer a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on top to enrich its velvety texture.
Side Dishes
This Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe is a satisfying meal on its own, but pairing it with crusty gluten-free bread or a light, crisp green salad can create a perfect balance of flavors and textures. A side of roasted Brussels sprouts or steamed green beans adds a fresh, healthy crunch to complement the stew’s richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party, serve this stew in individual rustic ceramic bowls or mini cast-iron pots to maintain heat and add charm. You can also ladle it over creamy polenta or gluten-free buttery mashed potatoes for an extra comforting twist that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen overnight. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or quick dinners.
Freezing
If you want to keep the joy of this Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe for longer, allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers. It freezes well for up to 3 months, perfect for busy days when you need a nourishing meal in minutes.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers slowly on the stovetop over medium-low heat to prevent the beef from drying out, stirring occasionally. If the stew seems too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it back up. Microwaving works too, but stirring halfway through is key for even warming.
FAQs
Can I make this stew without a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can cook this stew in a heavy Dutch oven on the stovetop or in the oven at low heat. Let it simmer gently for 2.5 to 3 hours until the beef is tender. Just make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Is red wine necessary for the stew?
Not at all. The red wine adds depth and complexity, but if you prefer not to use alcohol, simply substitute it with an equal amount of gluten-free beef broth. The flavor will still be rich and satisfying.
Can I use other vegetables in the stew?
Definitely! Feel free to add mushrooms, parsnips, or turnips for extra variety. Just keep in mind their cooking times to ensure everything is tender and perfectly cooked.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but if adding garnishes like sour cream, choose a dairy-free alternative or skip them altogether. The stew is rich and creamy without any dairy needed.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, this Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe is excellent for meal prepping. It stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day, making your busy week much easier and delicious.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about coming home to a pot of slow-cooked comfort, especially when it’s a dish as deliciously wholesome as this Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that warms your heart and kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own, sharing it with the people you love, one spoonful at a time.
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Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Stew
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This hearty Gluten-Free Beef Stew combines tender cubes of seared beef with a medley of vegetables simmered slowly in a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for a comforting meal, it uses gluten-free flour and low-sodium beef broth to cater to dietary needs without compromising on classic stew flavors. The slow cooking process melds all ingredients into a satisfying dish ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Meat and Fats
- 4 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1–2 inch cubes
- 4 ounces salt pork, trimmed of excess fat
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided plus 2 teaspoons more if needed
Vegetables
- 1 large onion, halved and cut into 1/8-inch-thick slices (about 2 cups)
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces (about 2 cups)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch chunks (peeled, optional)
- 1 cup frozen peas
Liquids and Broth
- 1 cup red wine (or an additional cup of beef broth)
- 3 cups gluten-free low-sodium beef broth or stock
Thickening and Flavoring
- 2–3 tablespoons gluten-free flour
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 sprigs thyme or 1 1/2 teaspoons dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Pat the stew meat dry using paper towels. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a Dutch oven over high heat until shimmering. Add half of the beef cubes and cook, turning occasionally, until well browned on all sides, about 8 minutes. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning. Transfer browned beef to a slow cooker.
- Repeat Browning: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to the Dutch oven and repeat the browning process with the rest of the beef. Once browned, transfer to the slow cooker as well.
- Sauté Vegetables: If needed, add 2 teaspoons olive oil to the now-empty Dutch oven. Add the sliced onions and carrots. Stir and cook, scraping the bottom to loosen any browned bits, until the onions have softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Flour and Aromatics: Sprinkle the gluten-free flour over the vegetables and stir constantly until there are no dry flour spots left, about 30 seconds. Add the minced garlic and tomato paste and cook, stirring until fragrant, approximately 30 seconds more.
- Deglaze and Simmer: Slowly pour in the red wine (or additional broth), scraping the bottom of the pot to incorporate any leftover browned bits. Bring to a simmer and cook until the wine reduces and thickens slightly, about 2 minutes. Then, whisk in the beef broth or stock and mix well.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Pour the mixture from the Dutch oven into the slow cooker with the beef. Add the bay leaves, thyme, and salt pork. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook the stew on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender.
- Add Potatoes: About 2 hours before serving, remove the salt pork from the slow cooker and stir in the potato chunks. Continue cooking until the potatoes are tender.
- Add Peas and Final Seasoning: Approximately 30 minutes before serving, add the frozen peas. Season the stew to taste with salt and pepper (suggested starting point: 1/2 teaspoon each). Give it a final stir and let everything heat through before serving hot.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use red wine instead of additional beef broth.
- The salt pork adds depth but can be omitted or substituted with bacon for a different flavor.
- Peeling potatoes is optional based on your preference for texture.
- Be sure to use gluten-free flour and broth to keep the stew suitable for gluten-free diets.
- Adjust salt and pepper seasoning toward the end of cooking to avoid over-seasoning.
