Instructions
1. Brown the meat and aromatics
Heat the oil in a large pan or Dutch oven over high heat.
Add stew meat, onion, and bell pepper (if using).
Brown the meat on all sides and sauté until onion softens, about 5–7 minutes.

2. Add seasonings
Stir in tomato sauce, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Mix well to coat everything evenly.

3. Add flour and liquid
Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir to eliminate lumps.
Add water or stock and stir again to combine into a sauce.

4. Simmer
Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1½ hours.
Cook until meat is fork-tender.

5. Adjust and serve
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot with warm tortillas, rice, or mashed potatoes.