Caribou stew is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for colder months. Here’s how to make a delicious caribou stew in your crock pot or slow cooker with step-by-step instructions and tips.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground or diced caribou meat
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup (240ml) beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz/411g) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tsp dried thyme or other herbs of your choice
#### Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Ingredients**: Start by washing all vegetables thoroughly. Finely chop the onions and mince the garlic. Slice the carrots into thin rounds.
2. **Layer in the Crock Pot/Slow Cooker**: Begin with a layer of caribou meat at the bottom of your crock pot or slow cooker. This will help keep the stew ingredients together as they cook.
3. **Add Aromatics and Vegetables**: Sprinkle the finely chopped onions over the meat, followed by minced garlic for extra flavor. Place sliced carrots on top.
4. **Pour in Broth and Tomatoes**: Pour 1 cup of beef broth evenly over the meat, vegetables, and garlic. Add a can of diced tomatoes, ensuring they are well distributed throughout the stew mixture.
5. **Seasoning**: Add salt and pepper to taste. If you like, add some dried thyme or other herbs for additional flavor depth.
6. **Cover and Cook**: Place the bay leaf on top (if using) and cover your crock pot or slow cooker with its lid.
7. **Set Cooking Time**:
- For **crock pot**, set to low heat and cook for 6-8 hours.
- For **slow cooker**, set to low and let it simmer for 6-8 hours as well.
#### Tips for a Perfect Caribou Stew:
- **Check Seasoning**: Taste the stew after about 4 hours of cooking. Adjust salt, pepper, or herbs if necessary.
- **Simmer Longer for Tenderness**: The longer the meat cooks, the more tender it will become. Ensure your crock pot or slow cooker is set on low heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
- **Thickening Option**: If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir this mixture into the stew during the last hour of cooking.
#### Serving Suggestions:
Serve the caribou stew hot over a bed of mashed potatoes or rice. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra touch of color and freshness. Enjoy your delicious and warming caribou stew!
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By following these detailed steps, you’ll have a rich, flavorful caribou stew perfect for any cold evening. Enjoy your meal!