Beef Stew with Mash

Method

1. Brown the beef and bacon in the olive oil in a hot casserole or heavy saucepan.
2. Remove the meat and toss in the onions, mushrooms and carrots, one ingredient at a time, seasoning each time.
3. Place these back in the casserole, along with the herbs.
4. Cover with red wine and stock and simmer for one hour or until the meat and vegetables are cooked.
5. Meanwhile bring a pan of water to the boil and blanch the potatoes for 6-8 minutes, or until tender.
6. Drain the potatoes and return to the pan. Add the cream and butter and mash together until smooth.
7. To make the roux, in a separate pan melt the butter, add the flour and cook for 2 minutes.
8. When the stew is cooked, remove the meat and vegetables.
9. Bring the remaining liquid to the boil and add 1 tbsp of roux.
10. Whisk the mixture until the roux is broken up and the juices have thickened, allowing to boil.
11. Replace the meat and vegetables, and taste for seasoning.
12. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve with the mashed potato.