Beef Stew Pie

6 tablespoons all-purpose flour, divided
1-1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 pound boneless beef round steak, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
2-1/4 cups water, divided
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1 bay leaf
4 medium potatoes
1-1/2 cups sliced carrots
2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
Pastry for single-crust pie (9 inches)

In a large resealable plastic bag, combine 3 tablespoons flour, salt and pepper. Add beef in batches; shake to coat. In a large skillet, saute beef in oil until browned. Add onion and garlic; cook and stir until onion is tender. Add 1/4 cup water, stirring to scrape browned bits.
Combine 1-1/2 cups water, tomato paste, Italian seasoning and basil; stir into skillet. Add bay leaf. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 1-1/4 to 1-1/2 hours or until meat is tender.
Meanwhile, wrap potatoes in aluminum foil and bake in a preheated 350 oven for 1 hour. Potatoes should be almost done, but still firm. Remove from foil and cut into bite-size chunks. Skin should slide right off, but it is okay if left on.
Cover carrots with water in a medium saucepan. Bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer until tender (about 10 minutes).
Once the beef mixture has simmered and meat is tender, combine the remaining flour and water until smooth; gradually stir into meat mixture. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened and bubbly. Discard bay leaf. Stir in potatoes, carrots and parsley. Transfer to a greased 2-qt. baking dish.
On a floured surface, roll out pastry to fit dish. Place over filling; flute edges. Cut slits in top. Bake at 425° for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Let stand for 10 minutes. Yield: 4-6 servings.

While this dish sounds like a lot of work, it really isn't all that difficult. Preparation is the key. It is a magnificent dish you HAVE to try!