MUM'S STOVE-TOP GROUND BEEF STEW WITH DUMPLINGS

Steps:

• 1. In a 3 quart pot, heat meat slowly on stove till browned, NOT fried. I think Mum said med. heat and adjust lower, if needed. Add a little salt and pepper.
• 2. When meat is browned, cover with water to about 1/2" over the meat, add onion and simmer for 20 mins. Mum never drained the meat first. (watch and stir if necessary to prevent sticking).
• 3. Add both the can of broth and can of water and simmer for ½ hr - 45 mins. Stir occasionally to prevent any sticking.
• 4. Add cut veggies and a little more salt and pepper to taste. Let simmer slowly till all veggies are done, about 45 mins to 1 hr. Thicken with flour gradually to consistency you prefer.
• 5. This is a THIN stew so you need something to sop up the juices. Make small to medium size Bisquick dumplings and plop on top of stew about 15 mins before you eat. Make sure you have enough liquid in the stew, because dumplings will absorb moisture. You turn back the temp so that the dumplings basically steam. Cover for 15 mins and serve. Crusty bread works too :)