2 lbs. boneless beef stew meat, cut into 1 1/2 inch cubes
2 med. onions, cut in eighths
2 stalks celery, cut in diagonal pieces
4 med. carrots, cut in half crosswise & lengthwise
1 c. tomato juice
1/3 c. quick-cooking tapioca
1 tbsp. sugar
1 tbsp. salt
1/2 tsp. basil (or whatever spice you prefer)
1/4 tsp. pepper
2 med. potatoes, cut 1/4 inch thick

Combine everything in casserole, except potatoes. Cover tightly and bake at 300 degrees for 2 1/2 hours. Mix potatoes into stew and cook uncovered for an additional hour. Stir occasionally. Eight servings.