Easy Beef Stew

* 2.5 lbs (1 kg) stewing beef - or a similarly sized inexpensive roast, cut up
* 2 medium onions, roughly chopped
* salt, pepper
* ketchup - HUH?!?!?!?!
* 5 lbs potatoes (old are better than new)
* 2 lbs carrots

* Time: 4 to 5 hours from start to finish
* Servings: 4 or more

1. Fill a large dutch oven or other very large pot about three quarters of the way with cold water.
2. Add the chopped onion, meat, salt and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, stirring occassionally. Add a few squirts of ketchup (yes, you read that right), and stir in it. Reduce heat to medium low so mixture is simmering.
4. Cover pot, leaving the lid slightly tilted so it doesn't boil over, and simmer for at least 2 to 3 hours, stirring every 30 to 60 minutes (if you think of it).
5. During that time, peel all those potatoes and carrots! Extra amounts can be added to make the stew feed more people.
6. At the end of the simmering period, you should find that the amount of liquid has been reduced. At this point, add the veggies and bring back to a boil.
7. Again, reduce to a simmer, cover the pot and cook for about an hour.
8. Yummy!

* Near the end of the cooking time, make dumplings if you like. I don't care for them myself.
* Thickening is optional. Near the end of the cooking time, reduce heat to low and slowly stir in some flour mixed with cold water (or some cornstarch mixed with cold water). Continue stirring and increase heat again til stew is boiling. Continue to cook and stir for a few minutes til liquid thickens.
* Serve with your favourite bread or buns.