Sunday Best Beef Stew

Remove beef from packaging and dry well with a paper towel or clean kitchen towel. Drying the meat is essential to get good caramelization during the searing of the meat. Sprinkle meat with salt and Wondra Flour, coating all sides. Shake off excess flour.

In a large Dutch oven heat safflower oil at medium heat. When oil is shimmering add cubes of dredged beef in batches, turning and browning until all sides are a rich golden brown. Remove beef from Dutch oven and add onion wedges. Cook until slightly brown and translucent.

Add brown sugar, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaf. Stir well and add beef stock. Return beef to Dutch oven, cover and bring to a boil and then reduce to a slight simmer. Cook 2 hours.

Liquid should be reduced approximately by half. Taste and add additional salt, if needed. Add finely ground black pepper, if desired.

Add carrots and ½ cup water and simmer another 30”.

Add potatoes and simmer another 15”. Add celery and continue to cook until potatoes are tender.

Remove bay leaf before serving.