Easy Beef Stew ~ A boneless beef for stew or cubed for stew, beef cubes may be
cut from the chuck brisket, rib or plate.  Small meaty pieces contain varying
amounts of fat; if desired, remove surface fat from cubes before using.

2 lbs beef cubes
3 qts water
2 bay leaves
1/2 tsp salt
1/8 tsp black pepper
2 cups potatoes, diced
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup onions, chopped
4 cups instant mashed potatoes, dry
1 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1.  Brown meat on all sides.   Add beef cubes to water with bay leaves, salt and
pepper.  Cover and cook over low heat until tender.  When beef is tender, drain off
liquid into a separate pot; keep warm.

2.  Add potatoes, carrots and onions to liquid and cook until tender.
3.  Remove bay leaves, thicken liquid and vegetables with instant mashed
potatoes to the desired consistency.  Add meat and parsley and serve.

Serves 6