Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cook Beef Stew Recipe

  • July 12, 2025

Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cook Beef Stew is a heartwarming, rich, and flavorful dish that promises melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, bringing together the best of slow cooking to enhance the natural flavors of beef and vegetables. It’s perfect for those looking for an easy, comforting meal that practically cooks itself, giving you a cozy, delicious result every time.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cook Beef Stew

Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cook Beef Stew is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines tender chunks of beef with a rich, savory broth and a selection of vegetables like carrots, onions, and potatoes. The beauty of this stew lies in its simplicity and the long cooking time, which allows all the ingredients to develop deeper flavors.

By slow-cooking the beef, the meat becomes incredibly tender, and the flavors meld together in perfect harmony. Jamie’s recipe often includes a hint of herbs, a splash of red wine, and a variety of vegetables that make the stew not only filling but deeply satisfying. The slow-cook process allows the ingredients to break down and infuse the dish with robust flavors that are sure to delight the taste buds.

Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cook Beef Stew Recipe

Ingredients Needed

jamie oliver slow cook beef stew

To make Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cook Beef Stew, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • Beef: Typically, stewing beef or chuck is preferred for its tenderness when slow-cooked.
  • Olive Oil: For browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables.
  • Onions: For the base of the stew, offering a savory sweetness.
  • Garlic: Adds a deep, aromatic flavor.
  • Carrots: Sweetness and color to balance the dish.
  • Potatoes: A hearty base, adding texture and making the stew filling.
  • Tomato Paste: To provide richness and depth to the sauce.
  • Red Wine: Adds complexity to the stew’s flavor.
  • Beef Stock: For a rich, flavorful broth.
  • Herbs: Typically thyme, bay leaves, or rosemary for fragrance and depth.
  • Salt and Pepper: To season the stew to your taste.

Equipment Needed

Here’s the equipment you’ll need to prepare the dish:

  • Large Dutch Oven or Heavy Pot: Ideal for slow cooking, as it retains heat well and allows for even cooking.
  • Sharp Knife: For chopping vegetables and cutting the beef into chunks.
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula: To stir the ingredients and avoid scratching the pot.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure you’re adding the right amounts of stock, wine, and seasonings.
  • Lid: To cover the pot while cooking, locking in heat and moisture.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cook Beef Stew?

  1. Prepare the Beef: Cut the beef into 2-inch chunks and season generously with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, ensuring each piece is well-browned on all sides. Set aside once browned.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onions, carrots, and garlic. Stir them around for a few minutes until they begin to soften and become fragrant.
  3. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to lift all the caramelized bits. This adds a lot of flavor to the stew.
  4. Add the Rest of the Ingredients: Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the tomato paste and beef stock. Add your herbs-rosemary, thyme, or bay leaves. Bring everything to a simmer.
  5. Slow Cook: Once the stew is simmering, cover the pot with a lid and lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
  6. Final Touches: About 30 minutes before the stew is done, add the potatoes. Let them cook through, absorbing all the delicious flavors.
  7. Serve: Once the beef is tender and the stew has thickened to your liking, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve with crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Expert Tips

  1. Use the Right Cut of Beef: Chuck or stewing beef is the best choice for slow-cooked stews, as it becomes tender and flavorful. Avoid lean cuts, as they might dry out during the long cooking time.
  2. Don’t Rush the Browning: Take your time browning the beef and vegetables. This step adds deep, rich flavors to the stew, so don’t skip it.
  3. Add Potatoes Later: Potatoes should be added toward the end of the cooking process to prevent them from overcooking and becoming mushy.
  4. Make Ahead: Stews often taste better the next day after the flavors have had more time to develop, so consider making this a day ahead and reheating it when you’re ready to serve.
  5. Thicken the Stew: If the stew is too thin after slow cooking, you can mash some of the potatoes in the stew or add a cornstarch slurry to thicken the broth.
  6. Adjust the Wine: If you prefer a more robust stew, you can add more red wine, or alternatively, use a bit of balsamic vinegar for acidity.

Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cook Beef Stew is the epitome of comfort food. It’s an uncomplicated yet deeply satisfying dish that makes great use of slow cooking to enhance the flavors of beef, vegetables, and herbs.

With just a handful of ingredients and some patience, you can create a dish that will fill your home with warmth and leave everyone at the table asking for seconds. Whether it’s a cozy family meal or a special occasion, this stew is sure to impress.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cook Beef Stew

jamie oliver slow cook beef stew

Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cook Beef Stew is already a delicious, hearty meal, but there are plenty of easy ways to customize it to suit your taste or use what you have on hand. Here are a few recipe variations that will elevate this comforting dish to new heights:

  1. Vegetable Variations: The beauty of a slow-cooked stew lies in its flexibility. For added flavor and nutrients, try tossing in different vegetables. Root vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, and turnips make excellent substitutes or additions to traditional carrots and potatoes. If you prefer a bit of green, consider adding peas, spinach, or kale towards the end of the cooking time to keep them vibrant and fresh.
  2. Herb and Spice Twist: Jamie’s recipe calls for standard herbs like thyme and bay leaves, but you can give it a twist by adding fresh rosemary for a piney fragrance, or even a few sprigs of oregano for a Mediterranean touch. For a bit of heat, try adding chili flakes or a dash of smoked paprika to infuse a smoky, spicy flavor.
  3. Wine Options: While red wine is often used to deglaze the pan in Jamie’s recipe, you could experiment with different types of wine. A robust Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot will give the stew a deep, rich flavor. Alternatively, a white wine like Sauvignon Blanc can give a lighter, more acidic finish, which is perfect if you’re looking for a slightly less heavy stew. For non-alcoholic options, beef broth or even pomegranate juice could provide a similar depth without the alcohol.
  4. Adding Protein: If you want to make this dish heartier, consider adding other proteins. Bacon or pancetta, for example, can introduce a salty, savory note that complements the richness of the beef. If you prefer a more substantial meal, adding some browned sausages or lamb chunks will give the stew a more rustic, satisfying feel.
  5. Flavor Enhancements: To further intensify the flavor of the stew, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce. These ingredients bring an umami punch that enhances the meat’s natural flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, a dollop of tomato paste or even a bit of brown sugar can add depth and sweetness.
  6. Garnishing: While Jamie’s recipe serves the stew with crusty bread, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a fresh contrast to the rich, savory flavors. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can also help to balance the stew’s richness and add a creamy texture.

By mixing and matching these variations, you can transform Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cook Beef Stew into a dish that’s uniquely yours, every time you make it.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Storing leftovers properly is key to preserving both the flavor and safety of your slow-cooked beef stew. Here are some best practices to ensure your leftovers stay fresh and tasty:

  1. Cool Quickly: Before storing, allow the stew to cool to room temperature. To speed up the cooling process, you can place the stew pot in a sink filled with ice water or stir occasionally to release steam. This step helps to prevent bacteria growth and keeps your stew in safe, optimal conditions.
  2. Airtight Containers: Use airtight containers to store your stew in the fridge or freezer. Make sure the stew is fully cooled before transferring it to containers, as storing hot food can raise the temperature inside the fridge, potentially leading to bacterial growth.
  3. Refrigeration: If you plan to eat the leftovers within 3-4 days, you can store your stew in the fridge. Be sure to reheat the stew thoroughly, bringing it to a rolling boil before serving. It’s a good idea to reheat only the amount you plan to consume, as reheating multiple times can affect both flavor and texture.
  4. Freezing Leftovers: For longer storage, freezing is a great option. The stew can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, portion it into smaller containers, leaving some space at the top to allow for expansion as it freezes. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the stew overnight in the fridge and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
  5. Avoid Repeated Reheating: Try to avoid reheating the stew more than once, as this can lead to a loss of flavor and texture. Freezing leftovers in individual portions can help mitigate the need to reheat the entire batch.

By following these simple storage practices, you can ensure that your slow-cooked beef stew stays delicious and safe to eat, even after the initial meal.

What Goes Well With Slow Cook Beef Stew?

A hearty and rich stew like Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cook Beef Stew deserves equally satisfying accompaniments. Here are some excellent options to complement the flavors and textures of the stew:

  1. Crusty Bread: A classic pairing, a thick slice of warm, crusty bread, such as a baguette or sourdough, is perfect for soaking up the rich broth. You can even toast the bread and rub a garlic clove over the surface for an extra layer of flavor.
  2. Mashed Potatoes: If you’re craving something even more indulgent, mashed potatoes are a superb choice. The creamy, buttery potatoes provide a rich base to balance the savory stew. You could also make a fun variation by adding roasted garlic or horseradish to the mash for added depth.
  3. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted root vegetables, such as parsnips, carrots, and beets, make an excellent side dish. Their slightly caramelized flavor and crispy texture provide a nice contrast to the soft beef stew. You can season them with rosemary, thyme, and olive oil for an aromatic touch.
  4. Green Salad: A fresh green salad can help balance the richness of the stew. A simple mix of leafy greens like arugula, spinach, or baby kale, dressed with olive oil, lemon juice, and a bit of balsamic vinegar, will add a refreshing crunch to your meal.
  5. Buttered Peas: If you’re looking for a vegetable side, buttered peas with a little mint or dill add a burst of freshness and color that pairs perfectly with beef stew. The sweetness of the peas provides a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the stew.
  6. Cheese: If you want to elevate your meal further, consider serving a mild, creamy cheese, like Brie or Camembert. The richness of the cheese pairs beautifully with the beef, and the creamy texture contrasts nicely with the stew’s heartiness.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cook Beef Stew is already a comforting, flavorful dish, but with just a few tweaks, you can make it even more exciting and adaptable to your tastes. Whether you’re adding extra vegetables, experimenting with different wines and spices, or serving it with an array of mouthwatering sides, this stew offers endless possibilities.

And, once you’ve enjoyed your meal, proper storage and reheating practices ensure that you can savor the leftovers for days to come. Whether it’s a simple weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this slow-cooked stew is sure to please the whole family.

FAQs

What Ingredients Do I Need For Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cook Beef Stew?

To make Jamie Oliver’s slow cook beef stew, you’ll need the following ingredients: beef stewing cuts (such as chuck or brisket), onions, carrots, celery, garlic, tomatoes, red wine, beef stock, fresh thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, olive oil, and a little bit of flour to help thicken the sauce.

How Long Should I Cook Jamie Oliver’s Beef Stew In A Slow Cooker?

For the best results, Jamie Oliver’s beef stew should be cooked in a slow cooker for about 6 to 8 hours on low heat. This slow cooking process helps tenderize the beef and develop rich flavors.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Meat For The Stew?

Yes, you can use other cuts of beef suitable for slow cooking, such as shin or oxtail. If you’re looking for a non-beef alternative, lamb or pork shoulder can also work well in a slow cook stew.

How Can I Thicken Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cook Beef Stew?

If the stew is too thin, you can thicken it by either mashing some of the vegetables in the stew or adding a tablespoon of flour mixed with a little water. Another option is to reduce the stew on the stovetop after slow cooking for a few minutes.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Beef Stew Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef stew ahead of time. In fact, it often tastes better after sitting overnight as the flavors meld. Just store it in the fridge and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

Is There A Way To Make Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cook Beef Stew In A Pressure Cooker?

If you’d like to make the stew in a pressure cooker, you can cut down the cooking time significantly. It will take around 45 minutes to 1 hour on high pressure. Make sure to follow the same steps but use the pressure cooker instead of a slow cooker.

What Sides Go Well With Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cook Beef Stew?

Jamie Oliver’s beef stew pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with rice or polenta for a hearty meal.

Can I Freeze Leftover Beef Stew?

Yes, you can freeze the leftover beef stew. Let it cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container.

It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

What Type Of Wine Should I Use For Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cook Beef Stew?

A good red wine with a bit of acidity and tannins works best. Jamie Oliver suggests using a dry red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Shiraz, as it complements the rich flavors of the beef.

Can I Add Additional Vegetables To Jamie Oliver’s Beef Stew?

Absolutely!

You can add extra vegetables such as parsnips, potatoes, mushrooms, or leeks to the stew. Just be mindful of the cooking time as different vegetables may require slightly different cooking times.