Favorite Beef Stew

1/2 bag of carrots
3 ribs celery (cut up)
2 large potatoes (peeled and cut up)
1.5 C chopped onion
1/2 bag of green beans (opt.)
1/2 bag of corn (opt.)
3 cloves garlic
1 bay leaf
1.5 T Worcestershire sauce
3/4 t dried thyme leaves
3/4 dried basil
1/2 t black pepper
1.5 lbs. slew meat
1 can diced tomatoes
1 can reduced sodium beef broth
1/4 c flour
1/2 c cold water

Layer: carrots, celery, potatoes, onions, garlic, bay leaf, Wor. sauce, thyme, basil, pepper, beef, tomatoes, with juice and broth. Cover and cook LOW 8-9 hours.

LATER AFTER COOKING: To thicken--turn slow cooker on high. Mix flour and water (I use a whisk to get rid of lumps) and then add 1/2 C of cooking liquid. Add mixture to cooker. Stir to mix well. Cover and reheat.

***I usually add a splash or red wine to this--makes it yummy!
***I have also added extra broth and water to this and then added tapioka if anyone is interested.
***Since I'm making these separately, I can mix/match veggies for how each family would want their recipe.