INGREDIENTS:
* 2 to 2 1/2 lbs. lean chuck stew beef or round steak
* 1/4 cup flour
* Salt & pepper
* 6 slices bacon, diced
* 2 onions, chopped
* 2 cups beef broth
* Dash of ground cloves and nutmeg
* 2 tbsp. wine vinegar
* 2 tbsp. brown sugar
* 1 tsp. dried oregano
* 1 tsp. dried thyme
* 4 to 6 ounces small whole mushrooms, optional

PREPARATION:
Cut beef into cubes, dredge in flour mixed with a little salt and pepper. Place bacon in skillet and fry a few minutes. Add beef cubes and brown and all sides. Add onions and cook 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to crockpot. Stir in beef broth, water, spices, vinegar, brown sugar, and seasonings. Cover and cook on low 8 to 10 hours. Thicken juices with a mixture of flour and cold water if desired. Serve beef stew recipe with potatoes or noodles.
Serves 4 to 6.