We throw them in the slow cooker, a couple of cans of beef consume, a small can of tomato sauce, a couple of bay leafs then water just covering. We feed in carrots, potatoes and celery at the appropriate time. Meat should be "forkable". Take the meat and veggies out, take a cup or so of the juice out and mix in whatever thickener you prefer then dump it back in the cooker. Stir it around to reach your desired thickness and pour in a bowl then chow.
