Chuck Wagon Stew

Ingredients

• 1 tsp. sugar
• 1/4 c. all-purpose flour
• 2 lb. lean beef, cut in 1-inch cubes
• 2 Tbsp. oil or shortening
• 2 tsp. salt
• 1/4 tsp. pepper
• 1 tsp. chili powder (I use less)
• 1/4 tsp. thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 small can whole peeled tomatoes, cut up
• 1 (10 1/2 oz.) can beef broth
• 6 small potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 6 small carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 6 small onions, peeled and cut in half
• 3 to 4 stalks celery, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 pkg. frozen green peas