2 lbs. lean beef, cut up for stew
1/4 c. flour
2 tsp. salt
2 tbsp. pure vegetable oil
1 c. hot water
2 (8 oz.) cans tomato sauce
1/4 tsp. pepper
1/2 bay leaf
1/8 tsp. thyme, optional
6 carrots, peeled and cut
6 onions, peeled and cut in quarters (depending on size)
6 potatoes, peeled and cut in quarters (depending on size)
1 c. sliced celery

Roll meat in flour mixed with salt and brown slowly in hot oil in heavy pot (NOTE: meat can be browned under broiler and oil is eliminated).

Add water, tomato sauce, seasonings. Cover tightly and simmer about 1 1/4 hours. Add cut carrots, onions, potatoes along with celery. Sprinkle salt and pepper. Cover and simmer about 1 hour longer. Serves 6.