Old Farmhouse Beef Stew

 

1 lb. beef stew meat

4 slices bacon, cut into 1 inch pieces

1 medium onion

1 pkg. fresh mushrooms

1 jar brown gravy

1 can diced tomatoes, undrained

1 tsp. thyme leaves

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. pepper

2 carrots

3 potatoes

Heat enough oil to coat the bottom of your skillet.

Cook beef and bacon over medium-high heat

until beef is browned.  Drain.

Mince the onion and slice the mushrooms. Add to the pan.

Cook until onions are transluscent
and mushroom have cooked down.

Combine gravy, tomatoes, thyme, salt and pepper. 

Add to the beef mixture and stir gently.

Cover and simmer for 1 to 1 1/2 hours
or until meat is nearly tender

Peel vegetables. Slice carrots and dice potatoes.
Add to the pan and simmer 30 minutes more.

If desired, thicken with cornstarch & water.

Slow cooker option

Combine ingredients in slowcooker. Stir gently to mix.
Cover and cook on low setting for 8 to 10 hours untill beef and vegetables are tender.