Irish Stew

Makes 6 (1 1/3-cup) servings
Prep Time: 30 min.
Cooking Time: 30 min.
Low Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hrs to 2 hrs.

Ingredients:
2 Tablespoons butter
1 pound beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 pound (3 cups) potatoes, peeled, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 large (1 1/2 cups) onion, coarsely chopped
2 medium (1 cup) carrots, peeled, sliced 1-inch
1 leek, cut in half lengthwise, cut into 1/4-inch slices
3 cloves finely chopped garlic
1 cup dark stout beer or apple juice
1 cup tomato juice
1 can (14 1/2-ounce) beef broth
1 bay leaf
1 Tablespoon sugar
1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves

Directions:
1) In a 4-quart saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat.
2) Add stew meat and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
3) Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned. Remove meat to plate and set aside.
4) In same 4-quart saucepan, melt remaining 1 tablespoon butter. Add potatoes, onion, carrots, leek and garlic.
5) Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables start to soften.
6) Return meat to pan and add 1 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper and all remaining ingredients.
7) Continue cooking for 5 to 6 minutes or until stew comes to a boil.
8) Reduce heat to low. Cover; cook for 1 1/2 to 2 hours or until beef is tender.