Brown the meat in oil in a skillet or a slow cooker with a browning unit. Put all of the ingredients except the flour and parsley in a slow cooker with the meat. Add 2 cups of water and cook on low, covered for 8 to 10 hours. Uncover and turn on high. Blend the flour with 1/4 cup of water until it forms a paste, slowly add it to the stew, stirring constantly until slightly thickened. Stir in the parsley and serve. Serves 6 to 8