HEARTY BUSY-DAY STEW

When I was living in Missouri, a friend gave me her family cookbooks. I got the idea for this easy stew from one of them. The taco seasoning adds just the right touch.

—KRISTEN HILLS LAYTON, UT


PREP: 10 MIN. • COOK:1/2 HOURS • MAKES: 6 SERVINGS

1/2 pounds beef stew meat

1/2 pounds potatoes (about 3 medium), peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes

1 can (14 1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained

1 can (14 1/2 ounces) beef broth

1/2 cups fresh baby carrots (about 12 ounces)

1 large tomato, chopped

1 medium onion, chopped

2 tablespoons taco seasoning

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons cornstarch

2 tablespoons cold water

1. In a 5- or 6-qt. slow cooker, combine the first ten ingredients. Cook, covered, on low 7-9 hours or until the beef and vegetables are tender.

2. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water until smooth; gradually stir into stew. Cook, covered, on high 30-45 minutes longer or until stew is slightly thickened.

PER SERVING 3/4 cups: 303 cal., 8g fat (3g sat. fat), 71mg chol., 986mg sod., 32g carb. (8g sugars, 4g fiber), 25g pro.