Southern Style Green Beans

Grandma (and grandpa) would spend winters in Florida after my grandfather retired. Knowing her love of cooking and collecting recipes, I'm sure this probably came from one of the relatives after a get together.

1 medium onion
2 Tbsp. fat
2 1/2 cups tomatoes
1 small bay leaf
1 tsp. sugar
1 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. pepper
2 1/2 cups green beans
2 Tbsp. flour
2 Tbsp. water

Mince onion, saute in fat. Add tomatoes, bay leaf, sugar, salt and pepper. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove bay leaf. Add green beans (if using canned, drain). Make a smooth paste of the flour and water and add. Cook, stirring constantly until thick.