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 by my neighbor and friend, Maribeth.  It’s now a favorite 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

• Trim excess fat from meat and cube.
• Combine all ingredients in Dutch oven. Mix thoroughly.
• Bake, tightly covered, in preheated oven at 250 degrees for 5 hours. Stir once or twice during cooking.