Beef Stew with Pumpkin 

Step 1

In a large pot or Dutch oven, saute the onion in oil on medium heat until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, and cook 1 minute, until fragrant.

Step 2

Add meat and 1 teaspoon salt, brown 5 to 7 minutes. Add tomato paste, cook 1 minute.

Step 3

Add remaining ingredients except pumpkin, cover and cook on low heat until the meat is tender, about 1 1/2 hours.

Step 4

Add the pumpkin (or squash) and cook and additional 30 to 35 minutes, until pumpkin is tender.

Step 5

Taste for salt and adjust as needed, discard bay leaves and serve.