step 1
Slice off and save the rind of the Bacon (6 oz).
step 2
Slice the bacon into 2-inch cubes.
step 3
Simmer rind and bacon cubes for 10 minutes in 1 1/2 quarts Water (to taste). While the bacon simmers, slice the Onion (1) and Carrot (1). Drain the bacon and the rind and set aside after 10 minutes.
step 4
In a casserole or dutch oven over medium heat, saute drained bacon in the pot with Olive Oil (1 Tbsp) until slightly brown, about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove bacon and set aside, leave the oil in the pot. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C).
step 5
Slice Lean Beef Stew Meat (6 cups) into 2-inch cubes. Pat the beef dry. Heat the pot until the oil is smoking, and add the beef and sauté until nicely browned on all sides.
step 6
Transfer the meat into a bowl and set aside.
step 7
In the same fat, brown the sliced vegetables. Once the onion is softened, transfer the vegetables to a plate and set aside. Pour pour out the excess fat.
step 8
Return the beef and bacon to the casserole and toss with Salt (to taste) and Ground Black Pepper (to taste).
step 9
Sprinkle All-Purpose Flour (2 Tbsp) over the meat and toss again to coat the beef lightly.
step 10
Set casserole uncovered in the oven for 4 minutes. Toss the meat again and return to the oven for 4 minutes.
step 11
Remove the casserole and turn the oven down to 325 degrees F (160 degrees C).
step 12
Stir in Red Wine (3 cups) and Beef Stock (3 cups) just enough so that the meat is barely covered.
step 13
Add the Tomato Paste (1 Tbsp), mashed Garlic (2 cloves), Dried Thyme (1/2 tsp), crushed Bay Leaf (1), and saved bacon rind. Mix until incorporated.
step 14
Add the sauteed vegetables and mix.
step 15
Bring to a simmer. Once simmering, cover casserole and place in the lower third of the oven. Regulate heat so that liquid simmers very slowly for 3 to 4 hours. The meat is done when a fork pierces it easily.
step 16
Take the skins of the Onions (20) and slice off the ends. In a skillet, heat Unsalted Butter (3 1/2 Tbsp) with Olive Oil (1 Tbsp) until it bubbles. Add the onions and brown on both sides.
step 17
Add beef stock (1/2 cup), Salt and Pepper. Make a herb bouquet by wrapping the bay leaf (1/2), Dried Thyme (1/4 tsp), Fresh Parsley (4 sprigs) in a cheesecloth and tie it shut. Add this to the pan and cover.
step 18
Simmer slowly for 40 to 50 minutes until the onion are tender, but hold their shape. During this time, slice the Mushrooms (4 1/2 cups). When onion are tender,remove herb bouquet and set onions aside.
step 19
Wipe out skillet and heat remaining oil and butter over high heat. When the butter starts bubbling, add the sliced mushrooms. Toss and shake pan for 4 to 5 minutes until lightly brown and set aside.
step 20
When the meat in the casserole is tender, prepare a large strainer or sieve over a large sauce pot.
step 21
Remove the meat and vegetables before you strain the sauce. Then, pour the contents of the casserole into the sieve.
step 22
Simmer and reduce the saved sauce to make a gravy. Skim off excess fat on the surface, and taste for seasoning. The sauce is ready when it begins to coat the back of a spoon.
step 23
Arrange the cooked onion, beef, and mushrooms how you see fit. Pour the gravy over the beef. Serve on its own or with potatoes, noodles, or rice. Enjoy!
