Beef Stew ready for the table

Hearty Beef Stew is the perfect winter dish and is wonderful served with Cornbread (see my posting of 1/30/2011).  This recipe was shared with me by my neighbor and friend, Maribeth.  It’s now a favorite of mine and terrific to serve to a crowd.  Let the stew simmer in the oven while you enjoy your family or guests.

Five Hour Beef Stew

2 pounds stew meat or round steak
16 ounces tomato sauce
1 cup water
1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 large potatoes, cut up
6 carrots, cut up
1 cup coarsely chopped celery
1/2 medium green pepper, chopped
1/2 medium-sized onion, chopped
1 slice white bread with crusts, chopped

1. Trim excess fat from meat and cube.

2. Combine all ingredients in Dutch oven. Mix thoroughly.

3. Bake, tightly covered, in preheated oven at 250 degrees for 5 hours. Stir once or twice during cooking.