Poor Man's Beef Stew
This is a wonderful time saver. Savory beef stew in flavorful gravy that cooks for just a few hours. And you don't have to brown the meat first!
Prep Time 20 minutes minutes Total Time 2 hours hours 20 minutes minutes
- 2 cans 14.5 ounce diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups water
- 6 tablespoons quick-cooking tapioca
- 4 teaspoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 3/4 teaspoon pepper
- 2 pounds lean beef stew meat cut into 1" cubes
- 4 medium carrots cut into chunks (or one 16-ounce bag baby carrots)
- 3 medium potatoes peeled and cut into eighths
- 8 ounces baby button fresh mushrooms washed and sliced or left whole
- 1 medium onion cut into chunks
- 2 slices bread cubed
- 1 bay leaf
- Optional garnish: fresh thyme or rosemary
In a large mixing bowl, combine tomatoes, water, tapioca, sugar, salt and pepper.
Add remaining ingredients, mix well.
Pour into a greased Dutch oven or 4 quart baking dish.
Cover tightly with lid or foil and bake at 375° for 1 3/4 to 2 hours, or until meat and vegetables are fork tender.
Adjust seasoning and serve in bowls.