OLD - TIME BEEF STEW

Ingredients:
Beef chuck - 2 pounds (cut in 1 1/2" cubes)
Shortening  -2 tbsp
Worcestershire sauce - 1 tsp
Garlic clove - 1
Onion - 1 (sliced)
Bay leaves- 2
Salt - 1 tbsp
Paprika - 1/2 tsp
Pepper - 1/4 tsp
Dash ground allspices
Carrots - 6 (peeled and quartered)
Potatoes - 4 (peeled and quartered)
Small white onions gravy  - 1 pound

Method:

• In Dutch oven thoroughly brown meat in 2 tbsp hot shortening, turning often.
• Add 2 cups hot water, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, onion, bay leaves, salt, sugar, pepper, paprika and all spice.
• Cover and simmer for 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally to keep from sticking.
• Remove bay leaves and garlic.
• Add carrots, potatoes and onions.
• Cover and cook 30 -45 minutes or till vegetables are tender.

For Gravy: 

• Sim fat from liquid; measure 1 3/4 cups liquid. Combine 1/4 cup water and 2 tbsps all purpose flour till smooth. Stir slowly into hot liquid. Cook and stir till bubbly. Cook and stir 3 minutes.