Why make a stew in summer?
We know, we know, it’s hot outside! But hear us out… this recipe really hits the spot and is so easy to stick in your Croc pot on low and forget about. If you’re like us and don’t want to run the oven In the summer then try this out! We promise you won’t regret it. By utilizing Seasonal Produce you can take advantage of the abundance of fresh, vibrant, and flavorful vegetables available during the summer months. By using in-season produce, you can create a dish that truly captures the essence of summer.
A summer stew is a dish that captures the essence of the warm and vibrant season by using fresh, seasonal ingredients and lighter flavors. Unlike the hearty and warming stews typically enjoyed during colder months, summer stews are designed to be refreshing, colorful, and well-suited for hot weather. They often incorporate a variety of summer vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins, and they're usually cooked for a shorter period of time to preserve the freshness of the ingredients. A common theme of summer stews is to celebrate the natural flavors of seasonal produce while creating a balanced and refreshing meal that's perfect for enjoying in the warmth of the summer months.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
11/4-1/2 pounds stew beef, cut into chunks
2 tablespoons flour
salt and pepper
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bay leaf
1 shallot, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 cups beef broth
2 small zucchini, chopped
1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
chopped fresh basil for garnish
grated parmesan cheese for garnish
1. Place olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat on the stove-top.
2. Toss beef with flour, salt and pepper in a small bowl until all the pieces all equally coated
3. Add beef to the hot pot and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes
4. Transfer beef and all it’s juices to the slow cooker
5. Add garlic, bay leaf, shallots, tomato paste and broth to the slow cooker. Stir to combine and set for 6 hours on low heat
6. Add zucchini and peppers 30 minutes before timer is up (after 5.5 hours of cooking), stir gently to combine and continue cooking with lid on for remaining 30 minutes
7. Serve with grain of choice