Beef and Burgundy Casserole

An elegant stew for a January event. For maximum flavor,be sure to make at least a day in advance.

Ingredients:
3 lbs. lean chuck or round steak cut in 2″ cubes
2 Tbsp. butter
2 Tbsp. bacon fat
3 Tbsp. flour
pepper and salt to taste
1/2 – 1 tsp. dried basil or 1 Tbsp. fresh
1/2 – 1 tsp. dried oregano or 1 Tbsp. fresh
1 clove garlic, minced
1 2/3 cups water
1 lb. tiny white onions, parboiled and peeled
1 lb. sliced mushrooms, sauteed (optional)
2 lb. baby carrots
1 cup burgundy or other dry red wine
2 Tbsp. butter
1 Tbsp. sugar
3/4 cup Madeira wine or sherry
1/4 cup brandy

Instructions:
Heat butter and bacon fat in a large heavy skillet and brown beef. Place in large casserole. Add to skillet: bacon fat, flour, salt and pepper, basil, oregano and garlic. Stir until flour begins to brown. Slowly add water and stir until thickened. Add burgundy and stir until sauce is smooth. Pour over meat, cover and bake at 300 F. for 3 hours.
In a skillet, melt butter and stir in sugar. Add carrots and onions and stir frequently until slightly browned. Add to casserole with sauteed mushrooms and Madeira. Cover and cook at 300 F. for 30 minutes. Stir in brandy just before serving. Serve with crusty rolls to 8 delighted guests.

Enjoy! (Page: 112)

He who laughs last usually has a tooth missing!