Hearty Beef Stew

Hmm...there appears to be a pattern to this blog so far:
dessert in new baking pan-->slow cooker meal-->dessert in new baking pan-->slow cooker meal...

Hey, what can I say? I love using new gadgets!

A not-so-distant relative of Beef Stroganoff, Beef Stew is warm, rustic and very simple to make. I opted for some lean stew beef (very cheap!) and your average stew veggies. Typically, the goal of slow cooker meals is that they are easy to make before work and ready when you get home. This is also true of this meal, except I spent about 45 minutes prepping the night before. Not fun but totally worth it! I just woke up, threw everything in the pot and headed out the door.

*Note this is an after picture.

Beef Stew Recipe:

• 1/4 cup flour
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp hot smoked paprika
• 2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1lb lean stew beef
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (I love the flavor so added some extra)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 stalk of celery, chopped + handful of chopped celery leaves
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

Mix the flour and seasoning in a gallon ziplock bag. Place beef in the bag and coat evenly. Put beef in the slow cooker and add all of the veggies. Pour the broth and dash the Worcestershire sauce. Stir to mix thoroughly and cook on low for 10-12 hours. Garnish with fresh parsley.