Crockpot Irish Beef Stew

Instructions

1. Season the beef cubes in salt and pepper.

2. Toss the beef with flour to coat the pieces. Set aside.

3. Fry the bacon in a deep skillet or heavy pot until done then remove it with a slotted spoon, leaving the bacon drippings in the pan.

4. Working in batches and being careful not to overcrowd the pieces, generously brown the beef on all sides.

5. Transfer the beef to a plate and repeat until all the beef is browned.

6. Add the onions and fry them, adding more oil if necessary, until lightly browned, about 10 minutes.

7. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.

8. Add the vegetables and cook for another 5 minutes.

9. Add tomato paste, all the spices, and Worcestershire sauce. Roast briefly.

10. Deglaze the pot with stout beer and reduce briefly.

11. Add the stock, and return the beef and bacon to the pot along with the remaining ingredients and stir to combine.

12. Transfer everything to a slow cooker and then cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours

13. Adjust taste accordingly with salt and pepper. Discard any whole spices.

14. Serve with some crusty country bread or Irish soda bread.