Beef Stew with Mashed Potatoes

Beef Stew with Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients:

For the Beef Stew:

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 3 potatoes, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions: