Cajun Beef Stew

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 pounds beef, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 onions, sliced
1 (1 pound) can tomatoes
2 celery tops
1 cup thinly sliced carrots
1 large potato, peeled and sliced
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon thyme
1/3 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
1 bay leaf

Brown beef in oil. Sprinkle with flour. Mix well. Add onions and cook 5 minutes. Add remaining ingredients and simmer, covered, for 1 1/2 hours.

Serves 4