CARNE GUISADA - SLOW COOKER (MEXICAN BEEF STEW)

Steps:

• 1. In a large skillet, heat 2 teaspoons oil over high heat. Add half of the meat in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and sear on one side (about 5 minutes).
• 2. Transfer to a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker along with remaining un-seared meat.
• 3. In same skillet, add 2 more teaspoons oil, onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, and garlic over medium-high heat, stirring and scraping up browned bits with a wooden spoon, until vegetables are tender, 5 minutes.
• 4. Add cumin, chili powder, oregano, and flour; cook 1 minute continuously stirring.
• 5. Slowly pour broth into skillet, stirring until liquid is smooth, scraping up any bits stuck to the pan. Simmer 2 minutes.
• 6. Transfer mixture to slow cooker, along with tomatoes and bay leaves. Taste, and add more salt and pepper, if desired.
• 7. Cover and cook on Low heat setting for 8 to 10 hours. Alternatively, this can be prepared on a stovetop in a Dutch oven simmering over low heat for 2 to 2 1/2 hours. Or it can be baked in an oven at 325°F for 3 to 4 hours.
• 8. Served the stew immediately, with a few corn tortillas for dipping or rolling in. Garnish servings (as desired) with crumbled queso cotija, chopped cilantro, or chopped green onions, if desired.