In a medium skillet melt butter with olive oil over medium-high heat, place Stew meat, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side.
Add onion and mushrooms, fry another couple minutes.
Add thyme. ( if using fresh I take one sprig and tie it around the rest to hold them in place)
Sprinkle flour in evenly, and continue to stir to allow the meat to brown lightly.
Add red wine and scrape the skillet to get any brown bits from the bottom.
Pour the meat mix into a crockpot.
Add broth, water, and remaining ingredients.
Stir, and set on low for up to 6 hours.
Add more salt or pepper to taste if needed.
Plate and garnish with fresh thyme.