Horn & Hardart Beef Stew Copycat

Step 1: Trim off fat and gristle and save the fat.

Step 2: Season meat with salt and pepper very liberally and dredge with seasoned flour.

Step 3: Heat fat in a heavy pan, add meat, and brown well.

Step 4: Add tomatoes and 3 cups boiling water.

Step 5: Reduce heat, cover and stew meat very slowly for 3 hours.

Step 6: Skim off any fat that collects on the surface.

Step 7: If making soup, chop the meat into smaller pieces.

Step 8: About halfway through the cooking period, add carrots, onions and celery.

Step 9: Approximately half an hour before serving, add potatoes.

Step 10: The gravy can be thickened by mixing 3 tablespoons of flour with 3/4 cup of cold water before adding vegetables.

Step 11: Stir until smooth, add to the stew and cook .

Step 12: Just before serving, season to taste.