How to Make My Grandmother's Simmered Beef Stew

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 cups carrots, cut into bites
• 2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tsp dried thyme
• 2 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional)
• 1/4 cup cold water (optional)