Creamy Clove-Infused Beef Stew

by

This dish transforms simple beef chunks into a luxurious, slow-cooked dinner that feels indulgent yet approachable. By whisking together a creamy mixture and pouring it over raw beef in the slow cooker, the flavors meld gradually, creating tender bites of meat enveloped in a velvety sauce. The slow cooking process ensures that every spoonful is infused with depth, while the creaminess balances the robust character of beef. It’s the kind of recipe that adapts beautifully each time you make it—whether you add extra aromatics, adjust the seasoning, or pair it with different sides, it always “hits different.” Perfect for cozy evenings, this stew is hearty enough to satisfy yet refined enough to impress.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds raw beef chunks (stew beef or chuck, cut into cubes)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter texture)
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons flour (for thickening)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cloves (or 3–4 whole cloves, removed before serving)
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 2 medium potatoes, cubed
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon paprika or nutmeg for added warmth

Instruction

  1. Prepare the creamy mixture: In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, beef broth, flour, ground cloves, salt, and pepper until smooth. This mixture will serve as the base of the sauce.
  2. Layer the slow cooker: Place raw beef chunks at the bottom of the slow cooker. Scatter onions, garlic, carrots, and potatoes over the beef.
  3. Pour the mixture: Whisk once more to ensure the cream and flour are well combined, then pour the mixture evenly over the beef and vegetables.
  4. Add butter: Dot the top with small pieces of butter to enrich the sauce as it cooks.
  5. Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours, or on high for 3–4 hours. The beef will become tender, and the sauce will thicken into a creamy gravy.
  6. Final touches: Stir gently before serving. If using whole cloves, remove them before plating. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper as needed.

Servings

This recipe yields about 4–6 servings, making it ideal for a family dinner or for meal prep with leftovers that taste even better the next day.

Note

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. The creamy mixture acts as a canvas, allowing you to experiment with spices or vegetables depending on your mood and pantry. Cloves add a subtle warmth that pairs beautifully with beef, but you can adjust the amount to suit your taste. For a lighter version, substitute milk for cream, or for extra richness, add a splash of red wine to the broth. Always ensure the beef is cut into uniform chunks for even cooking, and resist the urge to lift the lid too often—slow cookers thrive on steady heat. Serve this dish with crusty bread, rice, or noodles to soak up the luscious sauce. Each time you prepare it, you’ll discover new nuances, making it a recipe that truly “hits different” every single time.

Leave a Comment