Beef Stew - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1/4 c. flour
3 1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
1 1/2 lb. boneless beef, cut in 1-inch cubes
1/4 c. shortening
2 medium-size onions, sliced
1 bay leaf
4 c. water
6 potatoes, cut in quarters
6 carrots, cut in 1-inch pieces

Preparation

Combine 2 tablespoons flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt and pepper. Coat meat with seasoned flour.
Brown in shortening for 20 to 30 minutes in a Dutch oven.
Add onions and bay leaf; brown 5 minutes longer.
Add 2 3/4 cups water.
Cover tightly and simmer for 1 1/2 hours until meat is tender.
Remove bay leaf.
Add potatoes, carrots, 1 cup water and 2 teaspoons salt.
Cover and cook 30 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Blend 2 tablespoons flour and 1/4 cup water.
Slowly add to cooking liquid, stirring constantly, until thick.
Serve garnished with parsley, if desired.