Beef Stew with Variations

This is a new favorite in our house and I have tried it a few different ways.

• 1 lb stewing beef 
• Olive Oil
• Salt & pepper
• flour
• 1 can beer (Pale Ale)
• 1 packet onion soup mix
• 2 cups mixed veggies of your creative choice (see ideas below)
• Fresh rosemary
• 1/8 t ground cloves (Do not over do this)
• 2 cups Tortellini
• Water

More Traditional Version

1. Brown beef in olive oil in a skillet, season with salt and pepper add 2-3 T of flour and scrape (all) into crock pot
2. Pour beer over top, add veggies (potatoes, carrots and celery) and enough water to cover all. Stir in onion soup and herbs; cook on high for 4 hours or low for 8 hours
3. 30 minutes prior to eating boil tortellini in water until cooked, drain and add to stew

Fresh Market Veggie Version

1. Brown beef in olive oil in a skillet, season with salt and pepper and add into crock pot
2. Pour beer over top, add veggies (sliced red carrots, golden beets). Stir in onion soup and herbs(no cloves); cook on high for 4 hours or low for 8 hours
3. 30 minutes prior to eating boil tortellini in water until cooked, drain and add to stew

4.  Stir fry greens (beet tops or spinach), red peppers and green onions until wilted and add in