APPLE BEEF STEW

This is a recipe I got from a TOH publication several years ago.

2 lbs boneless chuck roast, cubed
1 tbsp butter
2 medium onions, cut into wedges
2 tbsp white whole wheat flour (or the low-carb alternative of your choice)
1/8 tsp salt
2 cups water
1 tbsp unsweetened apple juice
2 bay leaves
2 whole allspice
2 whole cloves
2 medium carrots, sliced
2 medium apples, peeled and cut into wedges

In a Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the beef cubes in the butter.  Add onions and cook until lightly browned; sprinkle with flour and salt. Gradually add the water and juice. Bring mixture to a boil and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes.

Place the bay leaves, allspice, and cloves in a double layer of cheesecloth, bring up corners and tie with cooking string to form a bag; add to the Dutch oven.

Reduce heat under Dutch oven to low, place lid on cooker and simmer 1 1/2 hours or until meat is almost tender. Add the carrots and apples; cover and simmer another 15 to 25 minutes until meat, carrots and apples are tender.

Discard spice bag before serving.

Yield: 4 servings

file photo