Slow-Cooker Shepherd’s Pie

INGREDIENTS

• 5 Tbs. olive oil
• 5 lb. boneless beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 lb. button mushrooms, quartered if large
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 5 Tbs. all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup Guinness or other stout beer
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup mushroom demi-glace
• 1 bouquet garni
• Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
• 1 bag (14 oz.) frozen pearl onions, thawed
• 1 1/4 lb. carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup fresh or thawed frozen peas
• 6 cups mashed potatoes (see related recipe at left)
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese