Step 1

Peel and cut the vegetable into finger-thick chunks. Cut all the meat into 1-inch thick cubes. In a big skillet brown the meat on all sides; scrape the brown parts from pan; set aside.

Step 2

Saute the onions until brown and set aside. Saute the vegetables and set aside.

Step 3

Now put all ingredients in a big pot, in layers one by one, sprinkling each layer with salt and pepper. First the meat, then the onions, then the vegetables, then the potatoes, if used..

Step 4

Pour the vegetable broth over the top. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to its lowest level and cover the pot tightly. Let the stew simmer for 1-1/2hours without stirring.

Step 5

Serve directly out of the pot.