Beef and Beer Stew

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 pounds stew beef, cut in 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons oil or part bacon drippings
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon dried leaf thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon dried ground marjoram
• 1/4 teaspoon dried leaf tarragon
• 1/2 teaspoon dried leaf basil
• 1 medium bay leaf
• 1 can (10 1/2 ounce) condensed beef broth
• 1 can or bottle (12 ounce) beer
• 4 medium carrots, chopped in 1-inch pieces
• 4 medium to large potatoes, cut in 1-inch cubes
• 6 small onions, peeled and cut in quarters
• salt or seasoned salt to taste
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cold water

PREPARATION: