3/4 gallon water or beef stock
2-3 large onions, sliced
2-3 lbs. of beef chunks cut into 1 1/2" cubes
2-3 tablespoons flour (for dredging)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 stalks of celery, sliced, strings removed
3 tablespoons beef soup base or bouillon
2 tablespoons wine (sherry, port or marsala)
4 potatoes, peeled, cut into 2 inch cubes
6 large carrots, peeled, sliced into 1/2" coins
2 bay leaves
2 16 oz. bags frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
1 16 oz. can tomato sauce or 1/2 cup ketchup
1/2 tablespoon fresh basil (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh garlic, peeled and minced
1 tablespoon flour (for thickening, optionally)
garlic and onion powder, salt and pepper, to taste