Yes, you can put raw beef in a slow cooker. In fact, slow cookers are specifically designed to cook raw meat, including beef, over an extended period of time at low temperatures. Slow cooking is a great method for preparing tender and flavorful beef dishes without much effort.
When using a slow cooker with raw beef, it's essential to follow some basic food safety guidelines:
Trim excess fat: Trim any excess fat from the beef before placing it in the slow cooker. Too much fat can lead to greasy or oily dishes.
Use sufficient liquid: Ensure there's enough liquid in the slow cooker to cover the beef or reach at least halfway up the meat. This helps to create a moist environment and prevents the beef from drying out during the long cooking process.
Don't overload the slow cooker: Avoid overfilling the slow cooker with beef or other ingredients. Leave enough space for the heat to circulate and cook the meat evenly.
Use the right setting and cooking time: Follow the recipe's instructions for the correct setting (low or high) and cooking time. Generally, slow-cooked beef recipes will provide specific guidelines on cooking times and temperatures.
Do not open the lid unnecessarily: Opening the slow cooker's lid frequently can significantly increase the cooking time and lead to uneven cooking. Only open the lid when necessary or as specified in the recipe.
Use a meat thermometer: To ensure the beef is thoroughly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For beef, it's generally safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium.
By following these guidelines, you can safely and successfully slow cook raw beef to make delicious stews, roasts, curries, and other mouthwatering dishes with tender, flavorful meat.