Creating Old Fashioned Beef Stew can be straightforward if you follow these simple steps:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Gather all ingredients and chop the vegetables as needed.
2. Sear the Beef: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. Brown the beef on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Deglaze the Pot: Stir in the tomato paste, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any brown bits. This adds flavor to the stew.
5. Add Broth and Herbs: Pour in the beef broth, then add the thyme and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer.
6. Incorporate Vegetables: Add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and chopped celery to the pot. Stir to combine.
7. Simmer the Stew: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for about 2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
8. Check for Doneness: After 2 hours, test the beef for tenderness. It should be fork-tender. If needed, continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes.
9. Thicken the Stew (Optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of flour with a little cold water to form a paste. Stir it into the stew during the last 20 minutes of cooking.
10. Season to Taste: Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
11. Serve Hot: Remove the bay leaf before serving and ladle the stew into bowls.