Shepherd's Pie

SHEPHERD'S PIE

2 Tbsp. oil
1 medium onion, sliced
1/2 c. boiling water
1/4 c. water
1 tsp. salt
1 pkg. frozen mixed vegetables (or use 11 oz. fresh, must be partly cooked)
Melted butter or margarine
1 1/2 lb. stewing beef, cubed
1 10-oz. can consomme
2 tsp. soy sauce
2 Tbsp. flour
1/4 tsp. pepper
2 c. hot mashed potatoes, seasoned with salt & pepper

Heat oil in large saucepan, add meat and brown well on all sides. Add onion, cook and stir until yellow. Add consomme, boiling water, soy sauce and bring to boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer until meat is tender (approx. 2-3 hours). Pour water into gravy shaker. Add flour, salt and pepper, shake together until blended. Stir gradually into boiling mixture. Add vegetables, cover and simmer an additional 5 minutes. Pour meat mixture into 1 1/2 qt. casserole. Spoon potatoes on top, brush with melted butter. Bake at 400F. for 30 minutes or until potatoes are lightly brown and meat gravy is bubbling.

Serves 4-6.