Mom's Beef Stew

This has got to be one of my favorite fall recipes. It brings back many happy memories for me. I hope that you enjoy it as much as my family does.

Mom's Beef Stew

1.5 pounds stew meat, cut into 1/2" pieces
1 onion, diced
1 tablespoon Crisco
4 cups boiling water
1 tablespoon Nature's Seasons
1 bay leaf
6-8 small red or yellow potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2" pieces
1 small bag of baby carrots, cut into chunks
2 cups boiling water
1/2 cup cold water
5 tablespoons flour

Melt Crisco in a 4-qt. sauce pan. Add beef, cook until browned. Add onion, saute' until golden brown. Add 4 cups boiling water and seasonings, cover and simmer 1.5 - 2 hours or until meat is nearly tender. Add vegetables and 2 cups boiling water, continue cooking 30 minutes longer or until vegetables are done.

To thicken, add cold water very gradually to flour, mixing until smooth. Add to simmering stew, stirring vigorously. Cook and stir until thickened. Serve with biscuits.