Delicious Beef Stew

I am always looking for an easy Sunday afternoon recipe. This one fits the bill perfectly. It reminds me of my sweet grandma and the smells I remember as a kid during those big family dinners. Take the work and worry out of Sunday dinner with this delicious idea.

Delicious Beef Stew
5 carrots, cut into large chunks--I leave the skins on, but you don't have to
1 pkg of fresh mushrooms, sliced OR 1 can of mushrooms
1 pkg.Onion Soup mix
1/2 tsp garlic powder
2 c. cubed beef--I use stew meat, but a cut up steak or small London Broil would work fine
1-2 Tbsp. Worcester Sauce
1/2 c. beef broth
2 tbsp. olive oil
salt & pepper to taste

1 recipe of your favorite mashed potatoes--yes instant ones work great

In a Dutch Oven (or frying pan if you don't have a D.O.) brown the meat in the olive oil. If using a Dutch Oven, add the rest of the ingredients to the meat, and cook at 200 deg. for 6-7 hours. Check stew about 3 hours into the cooking time and add 1/2 c. of beef broth or water if stew looks dry. When the stew is done use the drippings and drain them into a sauce pan, add instant brown gravy and water to make a delicious sauce.  Serve gravy and stew over mashed potatoes.

Crock Pot: You can also use this idea and brown the meat, add it to a crock pot with the rest of the ingredients. Cook on low 6-8 hours.

Variations: You can add cut up turnips, radishes, onions or potatoes to this dish too.Keep in mind that you may need to use 3/4 to 1 c. of liquid (beef broth or water) instead of the 1/2 c. called for above. Don't be afraid to experiment and make this the way YOU want it.

This makes Sundays more relaxing and more delicious.