Slow Cooker Italian Vegetable Beef Soup Prep Time: 25 minutes Cook Time: 4 hours Servings: 6 Ingredients - 1 pound stew meat or similar meat, cut into bite sized pieces - 1 tablespoon vegetable oil - 1 sweet potato, peeled and cubed (or 2 cups of sliced carrots) - 1 cup sweet green pepper, chopped - 8 ounces fresh sliced mushrooms - 1 medium green zucchini, sliced - 1 cup fresh green beans, cut into 1 - 4 leeks, chopped - 2 stalks celery, chopped - 14 ounces tomatoes, diced and not drained (or 2 fresh tomatoes, chopped) - 29 ounces beef broth or stock - 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 2 bay leaves - 1 sprig fresh thyme, optional	1

	Chunky beef soup with an Italian flair, slow cooked to bring out the zesty flavor combinations.   Directions In a skillet over medium high heat, brown meat. Place meat into slow cooker along with the pan drippings. Add all vegetables, seasonings, and broth. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours. Season to taste.	2