Crockpot Beef Ragout
3 pounds lean stew beef, cut into 1-inch cubes
3 teaspoons salt, divided
1/2 teaspoon pepper
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped celery
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups water, divided
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup red wine
1 can (14.5 ounces) chopped tomatoes
1 large bay leaf
1/4 teaspoon ground thyme
12 small onions
6 carrots, halved crosswise then halved lengthwise
12 small potatoes or 6 medium potatoes, halved
Sprinkle stew beef with 2 teaspoons salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. In hot oil
in large skillet, brown stew beef quickly on all sides. Add chopped onion,
celery, and garlic. Cook until onion is tender and lightly browned. In a
large cup or small bowl, gradually add 1 cup of cold water to the 3/4 cup
flour, stirring until well blended and smooth. Add flour mixture to meat and
vegetable mixture, stirring constantly, until smooth. Spoon mixture into
slow cooker. Stir in 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 cup water and remaining
ingredients. Cover and cook on high for 5 hours, or cook on low for 9 to 11
hours.
Serves 8.