My mother made this as long as I can remember in a pot on the stove. When Slow-Cookers came along, it adapted easily to that format, and my growing family loved it, too. It's easy and economical--always two pluses for any dish. When the kids like it, too, that makes it a Home Run Dinner. These days, I add some cayenne and turmeric because they kick up the flavor a bit for our adult palates. AND they're good for my arthritis! Add some crusty garlic bread or a pan of cornbread...maybe a salad, and dinner's ready!