2 ts Cornstarch
1    Bay leaf
1 c  Beef poaching liquid *
1/4 ts Coarse ground black pepper

Dissolve cornstarch in one tablespoon poaching liquid. Combine cornstarch
mixture, remaining poaching liquid, bay leaf & pepper. Cook & stir over
medium heat until clear & slightly thickened, about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove
bay leaf. (Yield: 3/4 cup) * strained & divided. ** Sauce for POACHED BEEF
CHUCK ROAST.