Old-Timey Beef Stew

This recipe comes via and comfort food episode of Paula Deen's.

• Ready In: 2 hrs 30 mins
• Serves: 12

Ingredients

• 2  lbs stewing beef
• 2  tablespoons  vegetable oil
• 2  cups water
• 1  tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1  garlic clove, peeled
• 2  bay leaves
• 1  medium onion, sliced
• 1  teaspoon salt
• 1  teaspoon sugar
• 1⁄2 teaspoon pepper
• 1⁄2 teaspoon paprika
• 3  large carrots, sliced
• 3  celery ribs, chopped
• 2  tablespoons cornstarch

Directions

1. Brown meat in hot oil. Add water, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, bay leaves, onion, salt, sugar, pepper and paprika.
2. Cover and simmer 1 1/2 hours. Remove bay leaves and garlic clove. Add carrots and celery. Cover and cook 30 to 40 minutes longer.
3. To thicken gravy, remove 2 cups hot liquid. Using a separate bowl, combine 1/4 cup water and cornstarch until smooth. Mix with a little hot liquid and return mixture to pot. Stir and cook until bubbly.