Beef n' Potato Stew

2 to 2 1/2 pounds very lean beef stew meat
2 tablespoons bacon drippings or shortening
2 large onions, diced
5 large potatoes, cut in eighths
4 or 5 large carrots, cut in 2 inch slices
salt and pepper to taste
garlic flakes or garlic salt, optional
diced celery, optional
1 can condensed tomato soup

Brown stew meat in bacon drippings or shortening.

Add diced onions and cook until browned.

Add meat and onions, vegetables, seasonings, soup and a soup can of water to the crock.

Cook on low all day, high half a day.

Add more water as needed.

Serve with a hearty bread like French or Italian.