Cosy Beef and Bell Pepper Stew

Ingredients

• 3½ tbsp. vegetable oil
• 1kg stewing beef, cut into chunks
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, sliced
• 1 tbsp. plain flour
• 1 tbsp. dark brown sugar
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 Jar of onion and Guinness
• 400g can chopped tomato
• 600ml beef stock (from a cube is fine)
• 1 of each bell pepper, deseeded and sliced
• 400g can cannellini bean, drained and rinsed

Method

 Step 1.

Heat 1 tbsp. of oil in a large saucepan with a lid. Season meat, then cook about one-third over a high heat for 10 mins until browned. Put onto a plate and repeat with 2 tbsp. of oil and rest of the meat.

 Step 2.

Add a splash of water and scrape pan to remove bits. Add ½ tbsp. oil. Turn heat down, fry onion and garlic until softened. Return meat to the pan, add flour and stir for 1 min, until it looks rich and inviting.

 Step 3.

Add the jar of onion and Guinness, cumin, cinnamon, tomatoes and stock. Bring to boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer for 1 hr 45 mins. Stir occasionally and check that the meat is covered with liquid. Now add peppers and beans, and cook for a further 15 mins.

 Step 4.

This goes well with pasta as well as rice, with a little salad and garlic bread.