BEEF STEW

2-3 T shortening

2 1/2 lb cubed beef stew meat 

2 med onions thickly sliced

4 med stalks celery sliced

4 med carrots, halved and sliced

2 cloves pressed garlic

1 1/2 C V8 juice

3/4 C burgandy wine

3/4 C water

1/2 C tapioca

1 T sugar

1 T salt

1/2 t pepper

1/2 t basil

1/2 t marjoram

2 bay leaves

3 med potatoes diced

Brown beef in shortening then add all ingredients except potatoes.  Cover and bake at 300 degrees for 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally.  Add potatoes and return to oven uncovered for additional hour.