Herbed Beef Stew

Ingredients

2 to 2 1/2 lbs.. lean chuck or round steak
1/4 cup flour
salt & pepper
6 slices bacon, chopped
2 onions, chopped
2 cups beef broth
dash of ground cloves and nutmeg
4 tbsp.. herb or wine vinegar
2 tbsp.. brown sugar
1 tsp. dried oregano
1 tsp. dried thyme
optional: 1 cup of small button mushrooms

Directions

Cut meat into cubes, dredge in flour mixed with a little salt and pepper. Place bacon in skillet and fry a few minutes. Add pieces of meat and brown and all sides. Add onions and cook 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to Crock Pot. Stir in beef broth, water, spices, vinegar, brown sugar, and seasonings. Cover and cook on low 8 to 10 hours. Thicken juices with a mixture of flour and cold water if desired. Serve with potatoes or noodles.