Slow Cooker Mediterranean Beef Recipe

This slow cooker Mediterranean beef with artichokes recipe is a delightful combination of hearty beef and tangy artichokes, simmered together in a delicious blend of Mediterranean flavors. The artichokes and olives lend a unique, earthy flavor that perfectly complements the robust taste of the beef.

Photos of Slow Cooker Mediterranean Beef with Artichokes Recipe

While most ingredients are commonplace, the artichoke hearts used in this recipe may not be readily available in all kitchens. They can, however, be easily found in any supermarket, typically in the canned goods section. Additionally, kalamata olives, known for their rich and fruity flavor, also play a key role in this dish. These can be found in the ethnic foods aisle or at a local Mediterranean grocery store.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Mediterranean Beef with Artichokes

Grapeseed oil: A light and versatile cooking oil with a slightly nutty flavor.

Stewing beef: A tough cut of meat that becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.

Artichoke hearts: The tender center of the artichoke, typically canned or jarred, which adds a unique flavor to the dish.

Onion: A common aromatic that lends a savory depth to the dish.

Garlic: A powerful aromatic that adds a distinctive flavor to the dish.

Beef broth: A flavorful liquid made from simmered beef that forms the base of the stew.

Tomato sauce and tomatoes: Adds acidity and depth to the stew's flavor.

Kalamata olives: A type of Greek olive that has a rich, fruity flavor.

Dried oregano, parsley, basil: A combination of herbs that contribute to the Mediterranean flavor of the dish.

Ground cumin: A warm and earthy spice, commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine.

Bay leaf: An aromatic leaf that adds a subtle depth to stews and broths.

One reader, Kim Valdez says:

This slow cooker Mediterranean beef with artichokes recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and the beef is incredibly tender. The artichokes add a unique twist, and the aroma while it cooks is simply divine. It's become a family favorite in our household!

Kim Valdez

Mastering the Techniques for Slow Cooker Mediterranean Beef

How to brown the beef: Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Cook the beef in hot oil for about 2 minutes per side until browned. Transfer the beef to a slow cooker.

How to cook the beef in the slow cooker: Cover the browned beef with artichoke hearts, onion, and garlic. Pour in beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Stir in olives, oregano, parsley, basil, cumin, and bay leaf.

How to cook the beef until tender: Cook on low for about 7 hours until the beef is tender.

How To Make Slow Cooker Mediterranean Beef with Artichokes

Cook tender and juicy meat with this Mediterranean beef recipe. It’s slow-cooked in broth with olives, tomatoes, and herbs for bright and savory flavors.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 7 hours 8 minutes

Total: 7 hours 28 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1tbspgrapeseed oil
2lbsstewing beef
14ozartichoke hearts,(1 can) drained and halved
1onion,diced
4clovesgarlic,chopped or more to taste
32fl ozbeef broth,(1 container)
15oztomato sauce,(1 can)
14½oztomatoes,(1 can) diced
½cupKalamata olives,pitted and roughly chopped
1tspdried oregano
1tspdried parsley
1tspdried basil
½tspground cumin
1bay leaf

Instructions

Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Cook beef in hot oil for about 2 minutes per side until browned. Transfer beef to a slow cooker.
Cover with artichoke hearts, onion, and garlic. Pour in beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Stir in olives, oregano, parsley, basil, cumin, bay leaf.
Cook on Low for about 7 hours until beef is tender.

Nutrition

Calories: 323.95kcal
Fat: 11.42g
Saturated Fat: 3.53g
Trans Fat: 0.38g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.20g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.37g
Carbohydrates: 19.16g
Fiber: 6.39g
Sugar: 6.77g
Protein: 40.04g
Cholesterol: 95.25mg
Sodium: 922.11mg
Calcium: 105.29mg
Potassium: 1527.98mg
Iron: 6.10mg
Vitamin A: 50.98µg
Vitamin C: 24.52mg

A Crucial Technique for Perfecting This Slow Cooker Beef Recipe

To ensure that your stewing beef is tender and flavorful, it's important to brown it properly before slow cooking. This process, known as searing, enhances the flavor of the beef by caramelizing the surface. It also locks in the juices, making the beef moist and tender after slow cooking. For best results, make sure your pot is hot before adding the beef, and don't overcrowd the pot. Cook the beef in batches if necessary.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Slow Cooker Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop and measure ingredients the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use a slow cooker: Let the slow cooker do the work for you while you attend to other tasks.

Buy pre-cut vegetables: Opt for pre-cut vegetables to minimize prep time and effort.

Multi-task: While the dish is cooking, use the time to prepare side dishes or clean up the kitchen.

Invest in kitchen gadgets: Use tools like a food processor or mandoline to speed up the prep process.

Organize your workspace: Keep all ingredients and tools within easy reach to streamline the cooking process.

Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Mediterranean Beef with Artichokes Recipe

grapeseed oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil is a common substitute for grapeseed oil and will add a similar flavor profile to the dish.
stewing beef - Substitute with lamb: Lamb can be used as a flavorful alternative to beef in Mediterranean dishes and will work well with the other ingredients.
artichoke hearts - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini can provide a similar texture and absorb the flavors of the dish, making it a suitable replacement for artichoke hearts.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor compared to onions and can add a subtle sweetness to the dish.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a similar flavor without the need for mincing or chopping.
beef broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for beef broth to create a vegetarian version of the dish while still adding depth of flavor.
tomato sauce - Substitute with crushed tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes can be used as a substitute for tomato sauce, providing a chunkier texture and a fresher taste to the dish.
tomatoes - Substitute with canned diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute for fresh tomatoes, providing convenience and a similar texture to the dish.
kalamata olives - Substitute with green olives: Green olives can be used as a substitute for kalamata olives, offering a slightly different flavor but still complementing the Mediterranean profile of the dish.
dried oregano - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme can be used as a substitute for oregano, providing a slightly different herbal note to the dish.
dried parsley - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley can be used as a substitute for dried parsley, adding a vibrant, fresh flavor to the dish.
dried basil - Substitute with dried marjoram: Dried marjoram can be used as a substitute for basil, providing a similar aromatic and slightly sweet flavor to the dish.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander can be used as a substitute for cumin, offering a citrusy and slightly sweet flavor to the dish.
bay leaf - Substitute with thyme: Thyme can be used as a substitute for bay leaf, providing a similar earthy and herbal flavor to the dish.

Presenting Your Slow Cooker Mediterranean Beef

Elevate the plating: Arrange the slow-cooked Mediterranean beef with artichokes in a visually appealing manner, ensuring that each element is showcased beautifully on the plate.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley and oregano to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Incorporate a drizzle of olive oil: Before serving, drizzle a high-quality olive oil over the dish to enhance the flavors and add a touch of elegance.
Serve with a side of couscous: Accompany the slow-cooked beef with a side of fluffy couscous to complement the rich flavors and add a textural contrast.
Use elegant serving ware: Present the dish on sophisticated dinnerware to create a luxurious dining experience for the judges.
Add a touch of acidity: Finish the dish with a splash of balsamic vinegar to balance the richness of the beef and artichokes.
Incorporate edible flowers: Garnish the plate with delicate edible flowers to add a touch of whimsy and a hint of floral fragrance.
Create height on the plate: Use culinary techniques to create varying heights on the plate, adding visual interest and dimension to the presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Mediterranean Beef with Artichokes

Large pot: A large, sturdy cooking vessel used for simmering, boiling, or stewing ingredients.
Slow cooker: A countertop electrical appliance used for cooking food at a low temperature over a long period of time.
Spatula: A flat, flexible utensil used for lifting, flipping, and spreading ingredients.
Cutting board: A durable surface for cutting, chopping, and preparing ingredients.
Knife: A sharp tool used for slicing, dicing, and chopping various ingredients.
Measuring cup: A tool used for accurately measuring liquid or dry ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Utensils used for measuring small amounts of ingredients.
Stirring spoon: A long-handled utensil used for mixing and stirring ingredients in a pot or pan.

Storing and Freezing Mediterranean Beef with Artichokes

Allow the mediterranean beef stew to cool completely before storing or freezing.
Transfer the cooled stew into an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
If using a container, leave about an inch of headspace at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
Store the mediterranean beef stew in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When ready to reheat, thaw the frozen stew overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat the thawed or refrigerated stew in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds to ensure even heating.
If the reheated stew appears too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.
Taste the reheated stew and adjust the seasoning if needed, as flavors may mellow during storage.
Note: While it's safe to freeze the artichoke hearts in this stew, they may become slightly softer in texture after thawing and reheating. This change in texture is normal and should not significantly impact the overall taste of the dish.

Reheating Leftover Slow Cooker Mediterranean Beef

Stovetop method: transfer the leftover mediterranean beef to a pot and reheat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure that the beef is heated through without overcooking or drying out. Add a splash of beef broth or water if needed to maintain moisture.
Microwave method: place the leftover mediterranean beef in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel or microwave-safe lid. Heat it in the microwave on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it reaches the desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat the beef, as it can become tough and dry.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover mediterranean beef to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and reheat for 15-20 minutes, or until the beef is heated through. This method is ideal if you have a large quantity of leftovers or if you want to reheat the dish without stirring it.
Slow cooker method: if you have a small amount of leftover mediterranean beef, you can reheat it in the slow cooker. Place the leftovers in the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cover and let it reheat for 1-2 hours, or until it reaches the desired temperature. This method is convenient if you want to reheat the dish without actively monitoring it.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to stir the mediterranean beef occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent scorching. Also, make sure that the internal temperature of the reheated beef reaches at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

A Fascinating Fact About Mediterranean Beef with Artichokes

Artichoke is a great source of antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins, making it a healthy addition to this Mediterranean beef recipe.

The Economics of Making Slow Cooker Mediterranean Beef at Home

This Mediterranean Beef with Artichokes recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The combination of stewing beef, artichoke hearts, and pantry staples creates a flavorful and hearty dish that stretches your budget. With a rating of 9/10, this recipe offers great value for money. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25, making it an affordable and satisfying meal option.

Is This Mediterranean Beef Dish Healthy?

The slow cooker Mediterranean beef with artichokes recipe is a relatively healthy dish, thanks to its use of lean stewing beef, nutrient-rich vegetables, and heart-healthy olive oil. The artichokes, onions, garlic, and tomatoes provide a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The kalamata olives add a dose of healthy monounsaturated fats, while the herbs and spices contribute antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the recipe does have some room for improvement in terms of its overall nutritional value.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Trim any visible fat from the stewing beef to reduce the overall fat content
Use low-sodium beef broth and tomato sauce to control the dish's salt content
Increase the amount of vegetables, such as adding bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant, to boost the fiber and nutrient profile
Serve the dish over a bed of whole grain rice, quinoa, or bulgur to add complex carbohydrates and additional fiber
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil to enhance the flavor and add a pop of color
Reduce the amount of olives or use a mix of green and black olives to lower the sodium content while still maintaining the Mediterranean flavor profile

Our Editor's Take on This Mediterranean Beef Dish

This slow cooker Mediterranean beef with artichokes recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The tender stewing beef, combined with the earthy artichoke hearts and the briny kalamata olives, creates a rich and satisfying dish. The aromatic blend of herbs and spices infuses the dish with a Mediterranean flair, while the slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. This recipe is a wonderful option for a comforting and flavorful meal, perfect for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests.

Enhance Your Slow Cooker Mediterranean Beef with Artichokes Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for soaking up the flavorful Mediterranean beef sauce.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection and finished with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest, a refreshing and vibrant side to complement the hearty beef dish.

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A light and refreshing quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese, tossed in a tangy lemon vinaigrette, providing a balanced and nutritious accompaniment to the rich beef and artichokes.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love This Dish

Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers: Use a mixture of ground lamb, rice, tomatoes, and Mediterranean spices to stuff bell peppers and bake until tender.

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup: Combine chicken, orzo, vegetables, and a lemony broth for a comforting and flavorful soup.

Honey Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Toss Brussels sprouts in a honey balsamic glaze and roast until caramelized and tender for a sweet and savory side dish.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement This Slow Cooker Beef

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. These bite-sized appetizers are the perfect way to start any meal.

Bruschetta: Satisfy your guests' appetites with crispy bruschetta topped with a tangy tomato and basil mixture. This classic Italian appetizer is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and crunchy texture.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This decadent dessert is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth after a savory meal.

Berry Parfait: Layered with creamy Greek yogurt, fresh berries, and crunchy granola, this berry parfait is a delightful combination of textures and flavors. It's a light and refreshing dessert that is both satisfying and visually appealing.

Why trust this Slow Cooker Mediterranean Beef with Artichokes Recipe:

This recipe offers a tantalizing blend of Mediterranean flavors, including tender stewing beef, savory artichoke hearts, and aromatic herbs and spices. The slow cooking process allows the ingredients to meld together, creating a rich and flavorful dish. With the addition of kalamata olives and a medley of tomato-based ingredients, this recipe promises a symphony of Mediterranean tastes that will transport your taste buds to the shores of the Mediterranean. Trust in this recipe to deliver a memorable and satisfying dining experience.

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FAQ:

How long does it take to cook the slow cooker Mediterranean beef with artichokes?

It takes about 7 hours on low heat for the beef to become tender and flavorful.

Can I use fresh artichokes instead of canned artichoke hearts?

Yes, you can use fresh artichokes. Simply trim and quarter the fresh artichokes before adding them to the slow cooker.

Can I substitute the stewing beef with another type of meat?

Yes, you can use other cuts of beef such as chuck roast or even lamb for a different flavor profile.

Do I need to drain the canned tomatoes before adding them to the slow cooker?

No, you can add the canned tomatoes with their juices to enhance the flavor of the dish.

Can I prepare this recipe a day ahead and reheat it?

Yes, this dish actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Simply reheat it gently on the stove or in the slow cooker before serving.