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### Instructions
1. **Brown the Meat (Optional but Recommended)**
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes on all sides, about 5 minutes. This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped if you’re in a hurry.
2. **Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker**
Place browned meat, potatoes, carrots, onion, garlic, beef broth, diced tomatoes (if using), thyme, and rosemary into the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper.
3. **Cook Low and Slow**
Cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the meat is tender and vegetables are cooked through.
4. **Adjust Seasonings and Serve**
Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls and enjoy with crusty bread or over rice.
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### Tips & Variations
* **Make it Stretch**: Add more potatoes or root vegetables like parsnips and turnips for extra volume.
* **Swap Meat**: Use inexpensive cuts like pork shoulder or even chicken thighs for a different twist.
* **Thicken the Stew**: Stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water in the last 30 minutes to thicken the broth.
* **Add Greens**: Stir in chopped kale or spinach at the end for a boost of color and nutrition.
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### Final Thoughts
The **Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew** is a perfect example of how simple, budget-friendly ingredients can come together to create a meal that’s satisfying, nourishing, and full of heart. It’s a dish that welcomes you home, warms you up from the inside out, and reminds you that good food doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive.
This stew is ideal for anyone wanting a hearty meal with minimal effort but maximum comfort — a true slow cooker classic that will quickly become a family favorite.
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