Beef Stew with Chocolate

Looking to try a different tasting stew I stumbled across this recipe. It has a much more complex taste than the classic version of beef stew. Plus, it's a crock-pot recipe making it simple and delicious.

Beef Stew with Chocolate
Serves: 8 Serving Size: about 1.25 cups
Nutritional Info: Calories 336.6 Total Fat 11.0 g Saturated Fat 3.5 g Polyunsaturated Fat 0.3 g Monounsaturated Fat 2.8 g Cholesterol 75.3 mg Sodium 839.9 mg Potassium 600.3 mg Total Carbohydrate 25.3 g Dietary Fiber 2.2 g Sugars 6.4 g Protein 28.3 g

Ingredients
2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for seasoning
1 teaspoon ground black pepper, plus more for seasoning
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup frozen sliced carrots
1 (8-ounce) package sliced brown mushrooms
3 cups diced red potatoes
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
2 tablespoons finely grated dark chocolate
2 teaspoons crushed garlic
1 (1.5-ounce) packet meatloaf seasoning
1 (14-ounce) can low-sodium beef broth
1 cup red wine

Directions
1. In a large bowl combine beef stew meat, salt, pepper and flour. Toss until beef is well coated.
2. Heat the canola in a large saute pan over high heat. Add seasoned beef and sear on all sides until brown and caramelized. Remove to a plate and set aside.
3. Combine seared beef, carrots, mushrooms, potatoes and tomatoes in slow cooker.
4. In a medium bowl, stir together grated chocolate, garlic, meatloaf packet, beef broth, and red wine. Pour into slow cooker and gently mix together. Cover and cook on HIGH setting for 4 to 6 hours.
5. Serve hot

Adapted from: Sandra Lee at Food Network