Creating Old Fashioned Beef Stew can be seamless if you follow these easy-to-understand steps:

1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and season with salt and pepper. Sear the beef until it is browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot, stirring frequently until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste, cooking for an additional minute to deepen the flavor.
4. Combine Ingredients: Pour in the beef broth and add the thyme, bay leaf, and any additional seasonings you prefer. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Add Vegetables: After 1.5 hours, add the carrots, potatoes, and celery. Continue to simmer for another 30-45 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
7. Thickening (Optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of flour with a bit of water to create a slurry. Stir this into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
8. Check Seasoning: Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
9. Garnish: Once it's ready, remove the bay leaf and discard. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

By following these simple instructions, you'll create a delicious Old Fashioned Beef Stew full of flavor and comfort.