Tomato-Based Beef Stew

Ingredients

• 2 lbs sirloin beef (cut into about 1-1/2-inch cubes or use stewing beef)
• 1/3 cup flour
• 2 teaspoons seasoning salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 -6 tablespoons oil
• 2 large onions, chopped
• 3 tablespoons fresh minced garlic (or to taste)
• 2 stalks celery, finely diced
• 2 -3 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 -4 teaspoons dryed chili flakes (optional or to taste)
• 2 large bay leaves
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1/2 cup dry red wine (can use less)
• 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 (10 ounce) cans consomme, undiluted (or use all beef broth)
• 1 (14 ounce) can crushed tomatoes (can use a 28-ounce can if desired)
• 2 tablespoons oxo instant bouillon granules (or use an alternative browning sauce such as Kitchen Bouquet or OXO beef liquid) (optional)
• 2 lbs russet potatoes (cut into cubes)
• 2 -3 large carrots (peeled and cut into large chunks)
• 1 cup frozen peas (can use more)
• salt and black pepper
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
• 1/4 cup cold water (mixed with 1 tablespoon flour to create a smooth paste) (optional)
• cooked pasta (optional)
• grated parmesan cheese (optional)