Beef Stew

• 2 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
• 1/4 cup flour
• 3 medium potatoes, cubed
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 stalks celery, chopped

Instructions

1. 1

   Toss the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper.

2. 2

   Heat oil in a large pot. Brown the beef in batches and set aside.

3. 3

   In the same pot, sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant.

4. 4

   Deglaze with red wine (if using) or a little broth. Return beef to the pot.

5. 5

   Add the beef broth, tomato paste, bay leaves, and dried thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 hours.

6. 6

   Stir in the carrots, potatoes, and celery. Simmer for another 30-45 minutes until vegetables and meat are tender.

7. 7

   Remove bay leaves before serving.