1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper, divided
2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons canola oil
2 tablespoons butter
1 large onion, chopped
2 to 3 garlic cloves, minced
3 medium carrots, thinly sliced
2 celery ribs, thinly sliced
4 cups water
1 to 2 bay leaves
1 to 2 teaspoons beef bouillon granules
1 to 1-1/2 teaspoons dried thyme
3 cups cubed peeled pumpkin