'Just for Susan' Beef Stew

Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat; cook beef in hot oil until browned completely about 5 minutes.

Pour 4 cups water into the pot; add salt and pepper. Bring liquid to a boil reduce heat to medium-low and cook beef for 2 hours.

Stir potatoes carrots celery and onion into the water; cook until all vegetables are tender about 30 minutes.

Whisk cornstarch into 2 tablespoons water; stir into the liquid in the pot. Continue cooking until the liquid has thickened about 10 minutes.