Country French Beef Stew

1. If using dry beans, rinse beans. In a large saucepan combine drained beans and the 4 cups water. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, for 2 minutes. Remove from heat. Cover and let stand for 1 hour. (Or, place beans in water in pan. Cover and let soak in a cool place for 6 to 8 hours or overnight.) Drain and rinse beans.

2. Place flour and pepper in a plastic bag. Add beef pieces, a few at a time, shaking to coat. In a 4- or 6-quart Dutch oven brown half of the beef in 1 tablespoon of the hot oil; remove beef. Add remaining oil, remaining beef, onion, and garlic to Dutch oven. Cook until beef is brown and onion is tender. Drain fat, if necessary. Stir in wine, scraping until the brown bits are dissolved. Return all beef to Dutch oven. Stir in beans, broth, tomato, and dried thyme (if using). Bring to boiling; reduce heat.

3. Simmer, covered, for 1-1/2 hours. Add carrots and parsnips. Return to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, covered, for 25 to 30 minutes more or until beef and vegetables are tender. Stir in fresh thyme (if using). If desired, garnish with parsley.