Slow-cooker beef daube

Slow-cooker beef daube is a classic French stew made with tender beef, aromatic vegetables, and rich red wine. The slow-cooking process melds the flavors beautifully, resulting in a hearty and comforting dish.

12 Nov 2025
Cook time 430 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

2 tsp olive oil
1 lb beef
1 onion
1 carrot
1 stalk celery
2 garlic cloves
1 cup red wine
3 tomatoes
1 tbsp fresh thyme
2 tbsp orange zest
2 bay leafs

Slow-cooker beef daube is a classic French stew that is perfect for a comforting and hearty meal. The slow-cooker method allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in tender beef and a rich, aromatic broth. This recipe involves simple steps and fresh ingredients, making it an easy yet impressive dish that's perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Instructions:

1. Prep the Ingredients:
- Dice the onion.
- Slice the carrot and celery.
- Mince the garlic.
- Dice the tomatoes.
- Cut the beef into chunks, if not already done.

2. Season and Brown the Beef:
- Heat 2 tsp of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef chunks to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and brown them on all sides. This helps to develop a rich flavor.
- Once browned, transfer the beef to the slow cooker.

3. Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion, sliced carrot, and sliced celery.
- Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables soften.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.

4. Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker:
- Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker with the beef.
- Pour in 1 cup of red wine over the beef and vegetables.
- Add the diced tomatoes.
- Sprinkle in 1 tbsp of chopped fresh thyme and 2 tbsp of orange zest.
- Tuck in 2 bay leaves.

5. Cook:
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
- Set it to cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors are well combined.

6. Serve:
- Remove the bay leaves before serving.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, with your choice of accompaniments such as mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a side salad.

This slow-cooker beef daube is a fuss-free, yet delicious way to enjoy a traditional French stew at home. By using fresh ingredients and allowing the slow cooker to do the hard work, you’ll have a rich and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. Pair it with a good crusty bread or mashed potatoes to soak up the luscious sauce and enjoy a comforting, home-cooked dinner.

Slow-cooker beef daube FAQ:

What is the recommended cooking time for Slow-Cooker Beef Daube?

Cook the beef daube on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The beef should be tender and flavors well combined when done.

How should I store leftovers of this beef daube?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the stew for up to 3 months.

Can I use a different type of meat instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute beef with lamb or pork for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat used.

What if my beef doesn't brown properly?

If the beef chunks are overcrowded in the skillet, they may steam instead of brown. Make sure to brown them in batches in a single layer for better caramelization.

Is there a substitute for red wine in this recipe?

If you prefer not to use red wine, you can substitute it with beef broth or grape juice. The flavor may differ slightly, but it will still be a hearty stew.

Cooking Tips:

- Choose a good cut of beef like chuck for the best texture and flavor.

- Sautéing the vegetables and browning the beef before adding them to the slow cooker enhances the depth of flavors.

- Use a dry red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot for a richer flavor profile.

- Fresh thyme and orange zest add a fresh and fragrant note to the dish.

- Let the slow-cooker beef daube cook on low heat for 7-8 hours for the most tender and flavorful result.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 430kcal
Protein 36g
Carbohydrates 12g
Fiber 3.43g
Sugar 6g
Fat 24g

Slow-cooker beef daube