I make this stew for slow cooker but its lacking something .. what is it?

[DippyDora]

I brown off stewing/braising beef with some onions and then put in slow cooker.

I add carrotts, swede, potatoes and mushrooms and cover with stock.

Tastes ok but not really nice IYKWIM

What am I doing wrong?

Add...
alcohol
herbs
worcester sauce
pinch sugar
tomato puree

Not necessarily all together, although I prob would.
Don't have slow cooker tho - no idea if that makes a difference?

Mixed herbs and plenty of seasoning

Not sure if slow cooker makes a difference either catrin.
I have dd who is not quite 1 yet so I have to make 'baby friendly' food atm.

They are good ideas and I'll give them a try - not all at once

Garlic and red wine and a good pinch of herbs.
Herby dumplings.

Oh I do add garlic, forgot to mention that!

i always use bay leaves,vinegar and fry the onions

chicken oxo,

not beef,

chicken,