How to Make Beef Stew

Beef stew is a thrifty, tasty and tummy warming dish perfect for a cold day. Enjoy the stew with some homemade biscuits or corn bread. This recipe serves 6.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless stew beef, 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oi
• 3 cups water
• 1 bay leaf
• 3 cups potatoes, quartered
• 1 1/2 cups carrots, cut in chunks
• 6 small onions
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1/3 cup water
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Steps

1. Brown meat on all sides in fat in a large, heavy saucepan.
2. Add 3 cups water and bay leaf.
3. Cover tightly.
4. Simmer about 2 hours or until meat is tender.
5. Add vegetables and seasonings and continue cooking, covered, about 25 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
6. Remove bay leaf.
7. Stir flour into 1/3 cup *COLD* water until smooth.
8. Stir flour mixture gently into stew.
9. Continue stirring only as needed to prevent sticking until stew thickens.

Tips

• Always use cold water with flour or cornstarch to thicken sauces.Warm water will not mix and cause lumps in the gravy.

Things You'll Need

• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Dutch oven or large saucepan

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