Beef Stew

Adapted from Paula Deen

2 pounds stew meat

1 cup flour

2 tablespoons oil

2 cups water

1 teaspoon worcesterire sauce

1 clove garlic

2 bay leaves

1 medium onion, sliced

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon sugar

1/2 teaspoon pepper

1/2 teaspoon paprika

3 large carrots, sliced

2 large potatoes, cubed

2 ribs celery, chopped

1 cup water

Heat oil in skillet over medium heat.  Coat stew meat with flour.  Add meat to hot oil one piece at a time.  Do not crowd the pan.  It takes me two batches to brown the all the meat.

Add water, worcestershire sauce, garlic, bay leaves, onion, salt, sugar, pepper and paprika.  Bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 1 1/2 hours. 

Remove bay leaves and garlic clove. 

Add carrots, potatoes and celery.  Raise the heat a little.  Add a cup of water.  Cook covered for 30 to 40 minutes. 

Serve with cornbread and enjoy!