SLOW COOKER SOUTHWESTERN BEEF STEW

Ingredients

• 2 lb (1 kg) boneless beef chuck steak, cubed
• 1 cup medium salsa
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 pkg taco seasoning mix
• 2 cups frozen kernel corn, thawed
• 1 can (19 oz / 540 mL) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (19 oz / 540 mL) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro, optional

Directions

1. Combine first 7 ingredients (beef through black beans) in a slow cooker. Cover and cook on low heat for 6 - 7 hours or until beef is tender.
2. Increase to high heat setting. Whisk together flour and water until smooth. Stir into stew. Cover and cook for 30 minutes or until stew is thickened. Stir in cilantro. May be frozen for up to 2 months.