Slow cooker beef and mushroom ragout
Slow cooker beef and mushroom ragout is a straightforward slow-cooker recipe with both metric and common imperial measurements.
Use a food thermometer where appropriate and follow current food-safety guidance for the ingredients you use. Do not rely only on appearance or a single fixed cooking time.
Ingredients
- 700 g / 1 1/2 lb stewing beef
- 250 g / 9 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups / 475 mL beef broth
- Garlic, thyme and black pepper
Recipe note: Mushrooms contribute liquid and savoury flavour; add a small amount of thickener near the end only if the sauce needs it.
Method
- Prepare the ingredients into reasonably even pieces and place them in the slow cooker in a way that suits the recipe.
- Add seasonings and the listed liquid. Slow cookers lose less moisture than uncovered pots, so avoid adding extra liquid automatically.
- Cook on a setting and within a time range supported by your slow-cooker manual. For meat or other temperature-sensitive foods, verify doneness with an appropriate food thermometer.
- Near the end, taste and adjust seasoning or thickness. Add delicate herbs, dairy-style ingredients or leafy greens late when the recipe benefits from it.
- Cool leftovers promptly and refrigerate or freeze them according to current food-safety guidance.
Substitutions and serving ideas
Use the recipe as a framework rather than a rigid formula. Similar vegetables can often be exchanged, but dense vegetables may need smaller pieces. Strong spices can be increased after cooking more easily than they can be removed, so start moderately. Pair soups and stews with bread or salad; serve sauces over pasta, rice or another suitable base.
Batch-cooking notes
Portion leftovers before storing so they cool more quickly. Freeze only when the main ingredients hold their texture well after thawing. Label containers with the dish and date rather than relying on memory.
Bottom line
This recipe is intentionally uncomplicated: a manageable ingredient list, flexible substitutions and no dependence on a particular slow-cooker brand. Record any timing adjustment that works well in your own appliance so the next batch is easier.
Editorial note: This page is educational. Specifications, prices, regulations and product availability can change. Check authoritative current information for your location and exact product.