Teriyaki Beef Stew ...............slow cooker

Prep :...20 minutes  ... Cook :... 7 hours  ... Serves 8

2 ...................pounds beef stew meat
1                   bottle (12 ounces) ginger beef or 1 can(12 ounces) ginger ale
1/4 ...............cup teriyaki sauce
2 ..................garlic cloves , minced
2 ..................tablespoons  sesame seeds
2 ..................tablespoons cornstarch
2 ..................tablespoons water
2 ..................cups frozen peas  , thawed
                    Hot cooked rice ***optional

1 )      In a large nonstick skittet , brown beef in batches  if necessary . Transfer to a 3-quart slow cooker
2 )      In a small bowl , combine the ginger beer , teriyaki sauce  , garlic and sesame seeds  ; pour over beef  . Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours  or until meat is tender .
3 )       In a small bowl , combine cornstarch and cold water  until smooth  , gradually stir into stew . Stir in peas  , cover and cook for 1 hour  or until gravy is thickened  . Serve with rice if deserved .

Heart healthy