The term "comfort food" can be used in reference to a host of dishes.

Some see Mom's homecooking as the ultimate comfort food, while others may insist hearty dishes that fill the belly are the only true comfort foods.

Regardless of one's definition of comfort food, one characteristic many might agree about is that foods must provide more than mere sustenance to qualify for entry into this wide-ranging category. Beef stew certainly fits that criteria, as many feel nothing is more comforting on a cold winter day than a warm bowl of slow-cooked stew. As winter settles in, those looking for some slow-cooked comfort can try this recipe for "Crockpot Beef Stew With Potatoes and Peas" from Lines+Angles.

Crockpot Beef Stew With Potatoes and Peas

Makes 6 servings

• 2 pounds boneless stew beef
• 1 teaspoon coarse salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, peeled and finely chopped
• 2 celery ribs, rinsed, trimmed and sliced
• 2 cloves of garlic, peeled and pressed
• 2 cups baby carrots, sliced
• 6 small new potatoes, rinsed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 6 ounces tomato paste
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• 2 cups frozen peas

1. Rinse the beef under cold running water and pat completely dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, cut the beef into generous bite-size pieces.
2. Combine the salt, pepper and flour. Place the cubed beef in a large resealable plastic storage bag. Add the seasoned flour and shake to thoroughly coat the beef with flour.
3. Heat the oil in a heavy bottomed skillet over medium heat. Add the flour-coated beef and brown on all sides.
4. Place browned beef in the crock pot. Add onions, celery, garlic, carrots, potatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce and parsley.
5. Cook on low for 10 hours or on high for 6 to 7 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, add the frozen peas, cover and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes.
6. Ladle stew into individual serving bowls and serve.

Tip: Cooking time may vary depending on age and size of crockpot.

Did you try this recipe? Let us know what you think. Email editor@gulfcoastmedia.com.