Beef Stew without vegetables

2 tablespoons safflower oil 2 tablespoons butter, unsalted 2 pounds stewing beef or lamb or pork, cut into 1-in cubes 3/4 teaspoon salt 1 x black pepper[...]

2 cups flour, all-purpose 1 tablespoon thyme leaves dried * 1 teaspoon salt plus extra to taste 1/2 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground, plus extra to taste[...]