Slow Cooker Beef Daube

Heat oil in large skillet over medium-high. Add half of beef to skillet; cook, turning to brown on all sides, about 8 minutes. Place in a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker. Repeat procedure with remaining beef. Add wine to skillet; scrape to loosen browned bits from bottom of pan. Bring wine to a boil, and cook 1 minute. Add to slow cooker. Stir in tomato paste, salt, pepper, carrots, garlic, celery, frozen onions, and 2 cups beef stock. Add thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Cover and cook on LOW until beef is tender, 7 1/2 to 8 hours.

Whisk together flour and remaining 1/2 cup stock. Add flour mixture and olives to slow cooker. Increase heat to HIGH; cover and cook until bubbly and thickened, about 5 minutes. Discard thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Garnish with parsley, if desired.