Hearty Beef Stew with Mushrooms

Ingredients:

• 12 to 16 ounces fresh mushrooms, coarsely chopped
• 3 to 4 medium potatoes, cut in 1-inch pieces
• 1 or 2 large carrots, cut in 1/4-inch slices
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried leaf thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup red wine, may substitute beef broth or water
• 1 package dry brown gravy mix
• 1 tablespoon dried minced onion or a small chopped fresh onion
• 1 pound beef stew meat
• 1 soup bone or beef shank

Preparation: