A comforting and flavorful beef stew made with tender beef and hearty vegetables, perfect for a cozy meal.
Combine the flour, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large plastic bag.
Shaking the ingredients in a bag ensures even coating and less mess.
Add the stewing beef to the bag and shake until the beef is evenly coated.
Coating the beef helps to thicken the stew as it cooks.
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the beef on all sides.
Browning the beef locks in the juices and adds a rich flavor to the stew.
Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.
Using a slow cooker ensures the beef becomes tender and flavorful.
Add the tomato paste, onions, celery, and bay leaf to the slow cooker.
Mixing the ingredients well ensures even cooking and flavor distribution.
Pour in the water and add the beef bouillon cubes. Stir to combine.
Dissolving the bouillon cubes in the water enhances the broth's flavor.
Cook on low for 4-6 hours until the beef is tender.
Cooking on low allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Add the carrots, potatoes, and green beans to the slow cooker.
Adding the vegetables later prevents them from becoming too soft.
Continue cooking for 1-2 hours until the vegetables are tender.
Check the vegetables occasionally to ensure they are cooked to your liking.
Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Serving the stew with crusty bread makes for a complete and satisfying meal.