Dr Pepper Beef Stew (Printer-Friendly Version)

Tender beef and vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth with a hint of Dr Pepper sweetness.

# Ingredients Needed:

→ Meat

01 - 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into chunks

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 large onion, diced
03 - 3 medium carrots, cut into chunks
04 - 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled or unpeeled, cut into chunks
05 - 2 stalks celery, sliced
06 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

→ Liquids and Condiments

08 - 2 cups low sodium beef broth
09 - 1/4 cup tomato paste
10 - 12 fluid ounces Dr Pepper soda

→ Seasoning Mixes

11 - 1 ounce low sodium brown gravy mix
12 - 1 ounce beefy onion soup mix

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Add beef, onion, carrots, potatoes, and celery to a 6-quart slow cooker.
02 - In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, tomato paste, Dr Pepper, brown gravy mix, and onion soup mix until smooth.
03 - Pour the combined liquid mixture into the slow cooker over the solids, then gently stir to combine.
04 - Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 4 hours until vegetables are tender and beef is fork-tender. Avoid opening the lid or stirring excessively during cooking to preserve meat tenderness and prevent over-breaking of potatoes.
05 - If desired, stir in frozen peas during the last hour of cooking to add color and texture.
06 - To thicken, remove lid during the final 30 to 45 minutes of cooking or mash some cooked potatoes into the broth.

# Helpful Hints:

01 - Searing the beef before slow cooking can add depth of flavor but is not required.
02 - Use Yukon Gold or baby red potatoes to reduce breakdown during slow cooking.
03 - Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.