Instructions: Heres my favorite beef stew - recipe found in San Antonio Express-News.

Coat beef cubes with a mixture of flour, thyme, pepper and salt. In a Dutch oven, saute beef in oil over medium-high heat to brown on all sides. Add bay leaf, broth and wine.

Bring liquid to a boil. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer 1 hour. Stir occasionally.

Cut carrots, onion, potatoes and celery into 1-inch chunks. Add vegetables to stew. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer 1 hour. Stir occasionally.

Mix dumplings and drop batter by spoonfuls onto boiling stew. Cook dumplings uncovered 10 minutes. Cover stew and cook dumplings 10 minutes longer.

To serve, sprinkle with chopped parsley, if desired.

Makes 4 servings.

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