Columbian Beef And Sweet Potato Stew

This is a hearty stew for a cold day. It has an exotics south american flavor.

Remove excess fat from beef.

Cut beef into 1-inch pieces and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.

Heat oil in 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat.

Cook beef in oil about 5 minutes , stirring occasionally , until brown.

Mix beef and remaining ingredients except apricots and parsley in 4- 5 quart crockpot.

Cover and cook on low 8 hours or until beef is tender.

Stir in apricots.

Cover and cook on low about 15 minutes or until apricots are softened.

Discard bay leaf and cinnamon stick.

Sprinkle stew with parsley.

stew meat, salt, pepper, olive oil, sweet potatoes, garlic, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, onion, italian-style tomatoes, dried apricots, fresh parsley