Classic Beef Stew

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
• 1 lb stewing beef, trimmed and cut into inch cubes
• 5 teaspoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 cup red wine
• 3 1/2 cups beef broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 medium onion, peeled and chopped
• 5 medium carrots, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch rounds
• 2 large baking potatoes, peeled and cut into 3/4-inch cubes
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon cajun seasoning (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste