Really rich beef stew in slow cooker?

[neonrainbow]

I want to do beef stew in the slow cooker, normally it comes out pretty watery and i want to make it really rich, thick and tasty. What should i add?

Roll the beef in seasoned flour and add very little liquid just veg

Add beef stock and a dash of Worcestershire sauce.

Guinness!

If you use beer or wine in the slow cooker its best to reduce it a little in a pan first.

I use frying steaks, rather than casserole beef - it falls apart nicely.
Plus, a bottle of beer (Hobgoblin my favourite) and a few loads fried mushrooms.

Also, add an oxo cube and couple of teaspoons gravy granules.

Am planning this dish for Tuesday

I like to add pearl barley to mine, I find it thickens it up nicely and I love pearl barley.

get the stuff browned up properly in a pan first.

Onions, celery, garlic in first..until properly soft with a hint of colour

flour/season the beef and brown that too

deglaze pan with wine/beer/stock

Also for slowcooker, season more and use less liquid is a good general principle.