I seal slices of braising beef in hot oil, put in the crock pot, using the same pan/oil fry up slices of onion, garlic, carrots, celery (briefly) put that in the crock, add strong beef stock a good slosh of red wine, bay leaf, fresh herbs and salt and pepper, leave to cook. About an hour or so before serving throw in some fresh sliced mushrooms. Serve with green beans and mashed potato. Job done, no drama.
We are empty nesters for the moment at least. My husband works but loves to cook, so he cooks Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights I do the rest of the week. Win win situation.