The best beef Bourguignon

Instructions

1. 1

   Place a large cast-iron casserole dish (one with a lid) over a medium heat on the hob. Add 1 tbsp oil, then the lardons. Cook for 5-10 minutes until crisp, then remove to a bowl using a slotted spoon, leaving the fat in the pan.

2. 2

   Sear ⅓ of the beef on each side until deeply caramelised, as the browning process creates flavour. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan and keep the temperature high – you want the beef to sizzle in the fat rather than release juices and boil. Remove once seared and add to the bowl with the bacon. Repeat with the remaining 2 batches.

3. 3

   As the beef browns, cut the carrots into bitesized chunks and finely chop the onion. When all the beef is browned and set aside, add the vegetables to the pan with ½ tbsp oil, if needed, and fry gently for 8 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and fry for 1 minute more, then stir in the flour and tomato purée.

4. 4

   Pour in ⅓ of the wine and bring to the boil. Using a wooden spoon, scrape the bottom and sides of the pan to deglaze it and release the charred bits of beef and bacon into the sauce. Add the beef and bacon pieces, then The Best cover with the remaining wine and beef stock. Season with black pepper and a pinch of salt. Tie the thyme and rosemary together in a bundle using string, then add to the stew with the bay leaves. Preheat the oven to 180ºC, gas mark 4.

5. 5

   Cover the dish with its lid, then cook in the oven for 4 hours, stirring every hour or so. Add a little water if the beef looks dry. When the meat falls apart when pushed with a fork, turn the oven off but leave the dish inside.

6. 6

   Meanwhile, for the garnish, melt the butter in a deep frying pan. Cut any larger onions or mushrooms in ½, then add to the pan with the garlic. Fry over a medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring often to coat in the butter, until gently caramelised and cooked through. Season with pepper and add the chopped parsley, then tip into the stew and stir gently to combine. Put the lid back on to keep warm until ready to serve, with buttery potatoes and steamed greens, if liked.