Best Ever Stew

No, really, it is the best ever!  I don't typically like stew, but I'm in love with this version.  It's not quick or easy, but it is definitely affordable (especially if you can buy the stew meat on sale and freeze it), and tastes so good!  It would be hard to stop eating if it wasn't so filling.  I've made it with a variety of meats - from pork to beef to venison - and it works well with all of them.  Although it is rather time-consuming, it sure is worth the wait!

Best Ever Stew

1 1/2 - 2 1/2 lbs stew meat, cut in chunks

1/2 c flour

1 t salt

1/2 t pepper

1/4 c vegetable oil

1 onion, finely chopped

1 - 2 carrots, finely diced

1/2 c celery (with leaves, if available), finely diced

1 T dried parsley

pinch of dried thyme

1 - 2 T Worcestershire sauce

3 1/2 - 4 c chicken or beef broth (I use chicken broth)

2 - 3 medium potatoes, coarsely chopped

2 carrots, coarsely chopped

1 - 2 onions, coarsely chopped

*Combine flour, salt, and pepper in a large ziplock bag.  Add stew meat, shake well.  

*In a large pot, heat oil.  Shake excess flour off meat, reserving flour.  Lightly brown meat in oil.

*Add remaining flour and finely diced onion.  Cook on medium until well browned, stirring constantly.

*Add finely diced carrot, celery, parsely, thyme, Worchestershire, and broth.  Cover and cook on low for at least 1 1/2 hours, stirring every 15 - 30 minutes.  Do not let the stew get hotter than a very slow simmer!

*Add remaining ingredients, increase heat to medium and allow to simmer for an additional 45 minutes, or until potatoes and carrots are done.