Wild Mushroom Beef Stew

Total recipe time: High Setting: 6-1/2 hours; Low Setting: 9-1/2 hours Makes 6 servings

Ingredients:

2 pounds beef for stew, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves, crushed
3/4 cup ready-to-serve beef broth
1/4 cup tomato paste
1/4 cup dry red wine
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound red-skinned potatoes (1-1/2-inch diameter), cut into quarters
8 ounces assorted mushrooms, such as shiitake, cremini and oyster, cut into quarters
1 cup baby carrots
Fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions:

1.Combine flour, salt, pepper and thyme in small bowl. Place beef in 4-1/2 to 5-1/2-quart slow cooker. Sprinkle with flour mixture; toss to coat.

2. Combine broth, tomato paste, wine and garlic in small bowl; mix well. Add to beef. Add potatoes, mushrooms and carrots; mix well.

3.Cover and cook on HIGH 5 to 6 hours, or on LOW 8 to 9 hours, or until beef and vegetables are tender. (No stirring is necessary during cooking.) Stir well before serving. Garnish with parsley, if desired.