Comfort Food

Blimey it is so cold and windy outside that all I want to do is curl up indoors with a huge bowlful of something hot and comforting. Days like today cry out for stews and casseroles and so that is what we are having.

Beef Stew

Serves 4 - 5 pts each

500g lean stewing beef

1 Onion - diced

2 Beef stock cubes

2 Leeks - diced

1 Swede - diced

2 Carrots - diced

650g Potatoes - diced

1 Bay leaf (optional)

Worcester Sauce (optional)

1 pint water

Put the beef, onion, water, bayleaf (if using), Worcester Sauce (if using) and stock cubes into a pan or slowcooker. Simmer gently for 1 1/2 to 2 hours. This can be prepared the day before or frozen at this stage.

Once the meat is tender add the vegetables and cook for another 30-45 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Serve in a huge bowl with more Worcester Sauce and eat with a spoon.

Any other vegetables can be used if desired. This is great served with Yorkshire Puddings but remember to add the points.