Old Time Beef Stew

2 lbs beef chunks
1 t Worcestershire sauce
1 clove garlic
1 medium onion, chopped
1 or 2 bay leaves
1 T salt
1 t sugar
1/2 t pepper
1/2 t paprika
Dash ground allspice
6 carrots, pared and sliced (or quartered)
4 bottles, pared and cubed

In Dutch oven, thoroughly brown meat in 2 tablespoons hot shortening, turning often.  Add 2 cups hot water an next 9 ingredients. Cover; simmer for  1/2 hours, stirring occasionally to keep from sticking. Remove bay leaves and garlic.  Add Vegetables. Cover and cook 30 to 45 min, or till vegetables are tender.

To thicken (I don't generally do this but I have and it makes a true stew):
Skim most of fat from liquid.  Measure 1/3/4 cups liquid.  combine 1/4 cup water and 2 T all purpose flour until smooth.  Stir slowly into hot liquid.  Cook and stir until bubbly. Combine with vegetables.

Pressure cooker directions:
In pressure cooker, thoroughly brown meat in 2 tablespoons hot shortening, turning often.  Add 4 cups hot water an next 9 ingredients. Pressure cook for 35 minutes, then quick release. Remove bay leaves and garlic.  Add Vegetables. Close and pressure cook 30 min. Quick release and thicken or serve.