🥘 Mediterranean 3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Beef (Simple & Irresistible)

This easy Mediterranean-style slow cooker beef is proof that simple ingredients can create bold, comforting flavor. Tender cubes of beef slowly simmer in a rich tomato base infused with garlic and herbs, transforming into a melt-in-your-mouth dish that tastes like it took hours of effort — because it did (but the slow cooker did all the work 😉).

Perfect for busy days, meal prep, or cozy family dinners, this recipe pairs beautifully with whole grains, roasted vegetables, or warm flatbread.

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🌿 Why It’s Mediterranean-Inspired

The Mediterranean diet focuses on:

• Lean proteins (like beef in moderation)

• Olive oil instead of butter

• Tomatoes, garlic, and herbs

• Whole, minimally processed ingredients

This recipe keeps it simple while delivering classic Mediterranean flavors.

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🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

• 2 lbs (900g) beef chuck, cut into cubes

• 2 cups crushed tomatoes (no added sugar)

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon sea salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

(The “3 main ingredients” are beef, tomatoes, and garlic — the rest are simple Mediterranean seasonings.)

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef
   Trim excess fat and cut beef into 1½-inch cubes.

2. Add to Slow Cooker
   Place beef into the slow cooker.

3. Mix the Sauce
   In a bowl, combine crushed tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.

4. Pour & Coat
   Pour mixture over the beef and stir to coat evenly.

5. Slow Cook

   • Low: 7–8 hours

   • High: 4–5 hours

   The beef should be fork-tender and juicy.

6. Optional Finish (Recommended)
   Stir in a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and sprinkle chopped parsley before serving.

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🍽 Serving Suggestions

• Over whole wheat couscous

• With brown rice or farro

• Inside warm whole-grain pita

• Over creamy mashed cauliflower

• Alongside a fresh cucumber & tomato salad

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🥗 Nutritional Benefits

• ✔ High in protein

• ✔ Rich in iron and B vitamins

• ✔ No processed sauces

• ✔ Naturally gluten-free

• ✔ Balanced Mediterranean fats

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❓ Q & A

Q1: Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes! Chuck works best because it becomes tender when slow cooked, but stew meat or brisket also work well.

Q2: Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely. Add carrots, onions, zucchini, or bell peppers during the last 3–4 hours of cooking.

Q3: Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes. Pressure cook on High for 35 minutes with natural release.

Q4: How do I thicken the sauce?

Remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking, or stir in 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with water.

Q5: How long does it store?

• Fridge: 4 days

• Freezer: 3 months

Q6: Is this good for weight loss?

When served with vegetables or whole grains in proper portions, it fits well into a balanced Mediterranean-style meal plan.