Rustic PEI Potato, Beef and Mushroom Stew

Ingredients

• 3 medium PEI white potatoes, washed and large diced
• .5 lb bacon, diced
• 2 lb stewing beef, cubed
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• .5 large onion, chopped
• 2 medium stalks, celery, sliced
• 1 tbsp garlic, minced
• 2 cups button mushrooms, quartered
• .5 cup turnip, peeled and large dice
• 2 large carrots, peeled and large dice
• 4 cups beef stock
• 2 medium bay leaves
• 1 tbsp dried thyme
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• .25 cup cold water
• 1 dash salt and pepper