Irish Beef Stew

For your Saint Patty's day, a hearty beef stew

Ingredients

* 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 1 package (16 ounces) frozen mixed vegetables, thawed
* 1 can (15 ounces) pinto beans, rinsed and drained
* 12oz dark beer
* 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
* 2 tablespoons medium pearl barley
* 1/2 onion chopped
* 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, dill weed, black pepper
* 1/2 tsp salt, garlic powder or squeeze 1 clove garlic

Directions

* In a 3-qt. slow cooker, combine all the ingredients.
* Cover and cook on low for 3-1/2 to 4-1/2 hours or until meat is tender.

To finish this meal add some Irish Soda Bread

Ingredients

* 3-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup sugar
* 2 tablespoons caraway seeds
* 2 teaspoons baking powder
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
* 2 eggs
* 2 cups (16 ounces) sour cream
* 3/4 cup raisins

Directions

* In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, caraway seeds, baking powder, salt and baking soda. In a small bowl, whisk eggs and sour cream. Stir into dry ingredients just until moistened. Fold in raisins.
* Spoon into a greased 9-in. springform pan. Bake at 350° for 40-45 or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before removing sides of pan. Cut into wedges; serve warm.

Happy Cooking!