Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 lbs lean stewing beef, in large cubes
  • 4 slices bacon, cut into thin strips
  • 2 tablespoons butter or 2 tablespoons margarine
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3/4 lb white pearl onion, peeled
  • 3/4 lb button mushroom
  • 2 carrots, finely chopped
  • 2 -3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • 1 stalk celery, chopped
  • 1/4 cup flour
  • 2 cups red wine
  • 3 cups chicken stock
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 teaspoons dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • salt & freshly ground black pepper

Method

  • In a large heavy flameproof casserole, over medium heat, melt butter and add oil.
  • Add bacon pieces to fat and cook, stirring often, until bacon starts to brown.
  • Add onion, garlic, carrots, celery, worcestershire sauce, herbs and spices.
  • Cook for 3-4 minutes until just softened, stirring frequently.
  • Pat beef cubes dry with paper towel, then dredge them in flour, evenly coated.
  • Add beef into the pot, turning them to let it be browned.
  • Add wine to pan and cook for 2 minutes.
  • Add chicken stock and tomato paste, bring to boil, scraping the base of the pot.
  • Reduce heat to low, partially cover pot and let simmer for approximately one hour.
  • Add in pearl onions and mushrooms and continue to cook on low heat for another hour, or until the meat is very tender.
  • Discard bay leaves and stir in the parsley before serving.