Creamy Bratwurst Stew

Ingredients:

• 1-3/4 lbs. potatoes (about 4), peeled and cubed
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 medium green pepper, chopped
• 2 lbs. uncooked fresh bratwurst (about 6 links)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1 tsp. dried basil
• 1/2 tsp. pepper
• 2 cups half-and-half cream
• 1 tbsp. cornstarch
• 3 tbsp. cold water
• Shredded Swiss cheese to garnish

Directions:

1. Put first 4 ingredients into a 5-quart slow cooker, toss to combine. Top with bratwurst. Mix broth and seasonings and pour over top.
2. Cook covered on LOW until sausages are cooked through and veggies are tender, about 6-7 hours; stir in cream.
3. Mix cornstarch and water; stir into stew. Cook covered on HIGH until thickened, about 30 minutes.
4. Garnish with shredded Swiss cheese.

Submitted by Jan Luepke