Place a large stockpot over medium heat, and add the oil. Allow the oil to heat for about 30 to 45 seconds. In the meantime, toss the stew meat with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Add the stew meat to the pot.
1 tablespoon cooking oil, 1 pound stew meat, 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Brown the meat for 1 to 2 minutes on each side. Sprinkle with flour, then stir. Reduce the heat to low, then add the potatoes, carrots, onion, celery, mushrooms, and salt. Cook the ingredients for 3 to 4 minutes while stirring.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 1 pound russet potatoes, 1 cup carrots, ½ cup white onion, 1 rib of celery, 4 ounces mushrooms, 1 teaspoon salt
Add the beef broth, tomato sauce, and bay leaves. Stir to combine, and bring the liquid to a simmer. Allow the stew to simmer for 30 to 35 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. Taste, and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
3 cups low-sodium beef broth, 8 ounces tomato sauce, 2 bay leaves