In a large skillet, brown 2 lbs. beef, cut in 1/2 inch cubes, in 1/4 cup of shortening. Reduce heat; add 1 cup chopped onion and 1 clove garlic, minced. Cook until onion is tender but not brown.

Blend in: 3 tsp. paprika 1 tsp. salt 1/4 tsp. pepper 1/4 tsp. dried thyme, crushed 2 bay leaves

Add:

Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, until meat is tender, 1 to 1 1/4 hours. Stir often toward the end of cooking. Stir in 1 cup sour cream. Serve at once and over hot noodles or macaroni.