Cut stew beef into evenly sized pieces
Pat the beef dry with paper towels
Season the beef with salt and pepper
Heat oil in a heavy pot over medium-high heat
Brown the beef in batches on all sides
Remove the beef from the pot
Add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot
Cook the vegetables until softened
Stir in tomato paste if desired
Add flour if you want a thicker stew
Pour in beef broth, water, or both
Scrape up browned bits from the bottom of the pot
Return the beef to the pot
Add potatoes, bay leaves, thyme, or other seasonings
Bring to a boil
Reduce heat to low
Cover and simmer until the beef is tender
Stir occasionally and add more liquid if needed
Taste and adjust seasoning
Remove bay leaves before serving
Serve hot