Crock pot bison stew is comforting, easy to prepare, and perfect for a chilly autumn day. It’s a simple way to add bison to your meal rotation and enjoy a hearty, nutritious dish.
Bison is a lean, nutrient-dense meat that benefits from slow, gentle cooking. Simmered low and slow in a crock pot, stewing bison becomes tender and flavorful without excess fat.
Stews often taste better the next day, so consider making a double batch for easy lunches or to freeze for later. You can simply add everything to the slow cooker and let it cook, or brown the meat first for a deeper flavor—either approach works well.
Recipe for Slow Cooker Bison Stew
Slow Cooker Bison Stew
Ingredients
- 2 parsnips
- 4 potatoes
- 3 carrots
- 3 celery stalks
- 1 onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 lbs stewing bison
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp dried leeks optional
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning or 1/2 tsp oregano & 1/2 tsp thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 3 1/2 cups 28 oz canned diced or crushed tomatoes
- 3 cups beef broth
- salt and pepper to taste
- parsley sprigs
Instructions
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Wash, peel, and dice parsnips, potatoes, carrots, and celery into roughly 3/4-inch pieces. Place them in the bottom of the crock pot.
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Slice the onion and mince the garlic, then add them to the crock pot.
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Add the stewing bison on top of the vegetables.
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Stir in the seasonings, canned tomatoes, and beef broth.
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Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours, until the meat and vegetables are tender.
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Season with salt and pepper at the end of cooking to taste.
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Garnish with parsley sprigs just before serving.
Notes
For extra depth of flavor, brown the meat briefly in a hot pan before adding it to the slow cooker. It’s an optional step that enhances the stew’s richness.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
What to Serve with Bison Stew
This stew pairs beautifully with warm biscuits, crusty no-knead bread, rosemary focaccia, or a 50/50 whole wheat loaf. A cheesy spinach biscuit is another delicious option.
If you enjoy hot bowls of soup and stew, try other warming recipes to expand your collection of seasonal favorites.
Enjoy!
Cook with the seasons, effortlessly! I’m Getty, a food educator and Professional Home Economist, helping you select, store, and serve seasonal ingredients in simple, delicious everyday meals.