Slow Cooker Hearty Pork Stew

Enjoy this slow-cooked stew made with squash, pork and vegetables - a perfect dinner.

Ingredients

1 1/2 lb (750 g) boneless pork loin roast, trimmed of fat, cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes
3 medium carrots, cut into 1/4-inch/6 mm slices (1 1/2 cups/375 mL)
1 medium onion, chopped (1/2 cup/125 mL)
2 cups (500 mL) 1/2-inch/1.25 cm cubes, peeled parsnips
1 1/2 cups (375 mL) 1-inch/2.5 cm cubes, peeled butternut squash
4 cups (1 L) chicken broth
1 tbsp (15 mL) chopped fresh or 1 tsp (5 mL) dried sage leaves
2 tsp (10 mL) chopped fresh or 3/4 tsp (3 mL) dried thyme leaves
1/2 tsp (2 mL) pepper
2 tbsp (25 mL) all-purpose flour
1/4 cup (50 mL) water

1

In 4- to 5-quart slow cooker, mix all ingredients except flour and butter.
2

Cover; cook on Low heat setting 6 to 7 hours.
3

In small bowl, mix flour and water; gradually stir into stew until blended. Increase heat setting to High. Cover; cook 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

Substitution: This recipe also works well with other root vegetables, like sliced parsnips, rutabagas or beets. It's important to eat a variety of foods to give your body all the nutrients it needs.