Beef Stew with Dumplings

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons canola oil
• 4 cups water
• 5 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 medium onions, chopped
• 1-1/2 cups sliced carrots (1/2-inch pieces)
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Browning sauce, optional
• DUMPLINGS:
• 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon rubbed sage
• 3 tablespoons shortening
• 3/4 cup milk