Delicious Family Slow Cooker Meal: Hearty Beef Stew

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 cups beef broth
• 3 medium potatoes, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the beef cubes until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
2. Transfer the seared beef to the slow cooker and add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and frozen peas.
3. Pour in the beef broth, and add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine all ingredients.
4. Cover the slow cooker with a lid and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
5. If you prefer a thicker stew, mix the cornstarch with a little cold water in a small bowl to make a slurry, then stir it into the stew about 30 minutes before serving.
6. Once cooked, remove the bay leaf and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.