This is perfect weather

... for comfort food! Winter months are the perfect time to make something warm and comforting for dinner. Time for my good old crock pot to see some action!

I'm not a big meat eater, but somehow chilly temperatures and a dinner of beef stew seem to go to hand in hand. Here's how I prepare mine:

There are only three of us (hubby, Sweet Cheeks and me), so I usually get a little over a pound of cubed beef for the stew. I start by browning it in a skillet, adding a little salt and pepper to taste.


Meanwhile, I peel a couple of large potatoes, cube them and throw them in the crock pot along with some chopped onion and baby carrots.



I add an envelope of onion soup mix, and give it a good stir. The soup mix is pretty versatile.



As for the wine, it will have its turn later....

Now, let's drain the meat and put it on top of the veggies. Throw in a couple of bay leaves as well.


Then, add about 3/4 cup of beef broth and a little red wine (maybe 1/2 a cup) . If you don't use the wine, you should add a little more broth.

Now put the lid on the crock pot and let it cook on low for at least 8 hours, then serve and enjoy.


I don't have a picture of it, but feel free to serve some crusty bread to go along. I know they like each other. :)

Everyone seems to have their favorite when it comes to cold weather comfort food. I think a nice big bowl of soup with warm rolls is another perfect meal. What about you? What's your favorite winter comfort meal?

Thank you so much for coming to visit me today. Stay warm!