Beef Stew With Ghoulish Mashed Potatoes

Kids of all ages will be delighted with the seasonal twist on this hearty beef stew, whick also features mushrooms and parsnips. Rich mashed potato "ghosts" are piped into each bowlful. The cook will love the convenient slow cooker preparation.

• Ready In: 8 hrs 30 mins
• Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 2  lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1  lb fresh mushrooms, halved
• 2  cups  fresh  baby carrots
• 2  medium parsnips, peeled, halved lengthwise and sliced
• 2  medium onions, chopped
• 1 1⁄2 cups beef broth
• 3  tablespoons tomato paste
• 1  tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2  garlic cloves, minced
• 1⁄2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1⁄4 teaspoon pepper
• 8  medium potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 2-1/3 pounds)
• 2⁄3 cup sour cream
• 6  tablespoons butter, cubed
• 1  teaspoon salt, divided
• 1  cup  frozen peas
• 2  tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2  tablespoons water

Directions

1. In a 5-quart slow cooker, combine the first 11 ingredients. Cover and cook on LOW for 8-9 hours or until beef and vegetables are tender.
2. About 30 minutes before serving, place potatoes in a large saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until tender. Drain. Return potatoes to pan; add the sour cream, butter and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Mash until smooth.
3. Set aside 12 peas for garnish. Add remaining peas to the slow cooker. Increase heat to high. In a bowl, whisk the flour, water and remaining salt until smooth; stir into stew. Cover and cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
4. Divide stew among six bowls. Place mashed potatoes in large resealable plastic bag; cut a 2-inch hole in one corner. Pipe ghost potatoes onto stew; garnish with reserved peas. Yield: 6 servings.