Chuck Wagon Stew

Ingredients

• 1 tsp. sugar
• 1/4 c. flour
• 2 lb. lean stew meat, cut in 1-inch cubes
• 2 Tbsp. melted shortening
• 2 tsp. salt
• 1/4 tsp. pepper
• 1 tsp. chili powder
• 1/4 tsp. thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 peeled tomatoes, quartered
• 1 (10 1/2 oz.) can beef broth
• 6 small potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 6 carrots, cut in 2-inch pieces
• 6 whole small onions, peeled
• 3 to 4 stalks celery, in 2-inch pieces
• 1 c. frozen green peas
• 3/4 c. water