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Savory slow cooker beef stew with tender beef and vegetables

Slow Cooker Lean Beef & Vegetable Stew (Diabetic + Low-Purine Friendly)


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  • Author: Adam
  • Total Time: 8 hr 20 min
  • Yield: 45 servings 1x

Description

This hearty slow cooker beef stew combines lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and a savory low-sodium broth for a nourishing, diabetic-safe, and low-purine meal. Each bite is flavorful and balanced, promoting steady blood sugar and joint-friendly nutrition.


Ingredients

Scale
  • Protein & Aromatics
  • 1 lb (450 g) lean beef (sirloin or round), trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Vegetables
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 1 cup green beans or peas (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup turnips or cauliflower florets, chopped (lower carb and purine alternative to potatoes)
  • 1 celery stalk, chopped
  • Broth & Seasoning
  • 3 cups low-sodium beef or vegetable broth
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste (no added sugar)
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp thyme
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 bay leaf
  • ¼ tsp turmeric (optional, anti-inflammatory)
  • Salt to taste (optional, limit to <¼ tsp total)
  • For Garnish
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley
  • 1 tsp fresh lemon juice


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beef: Pat beef cubes dry with paper towels. Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Sear beef in small batches for 3–4 minutes per side until lightly browned; transfer to the slow cooker.
  2. Transfer Aromatics: Add the chopped onions and minced garlic on top of the beef.
  3. Layer Vegetables: Add carrots, celery, and turnips (or cauliflower) to the pot.
  4. Mix Broth & Seasonings: In a bowl, whisk broth, tomato paste, paprika, thyme, black pepper, turmeric, and add the bay leaf. Pour over the ingredients, ensuring they are just covered.
  5. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 7–8 hours (best texture) or High for 4 hours. Avoid lifting the lid.
  6. Add Final Vegetables: 20 minutes before the end, stir in green beans or peas; cook until tender-crisp.
  7. Finish & Serve: Remove bay leaf, adjust seasoning, and garnish with parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice.
  8. Optional Thickening: Mash ½ cup cooked vegetables and stir back in for natural body without flour.

Notes

Keep broth low-sodium; avoid alcohol-based additions to keep purines low. Add extra non-starchy greens (spinach, kale, zucchini) for fiber. Hydrate well throughout the day.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 hours
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: Healthy / Comfort Food

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 400 g)
  • Calories: 260
  • Sugar: 5
  • Sodium: 280
  • Fat: 8
  • Saturated Fat: 2
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 13
  • Fiber: 4
  • Protein: 32
  • Cholesterol: 60