2 lbs. beef (cut in 1 1/2-inch cubes)
2 med. onions (cut in lights)
3 stalks of celery
4 med. carrots (cut in half crosswise)
1 c. tomato juice
1/3 c. quick cooking tapioca
1 tbsp. sugar and pepper
1 tbsp. salt
2 med. red potatoes (cut in slices)
1/2 tsp. basil

Combine beef, onion, celery, carrots, tomato juice, sugar, salt, pepper, and basil in 2 1/2-quart casserole dish. Cover, cook at 300 degrees for 2 1/2 hours. Mix potatoes in stew and cook uncovered 1 hour longer. Stir occasionally. Serves 8.