In a medium to large bowl combine 1/4 cup cornstarch, ½ tsp salt and ½ tsp pepper. Whisk to combine.
¼ cup cornstarch + ½ tbsp, 1 tsp salt, ¾ tsp pepper
Add the stewing beef and toss to coat. If you find the pieces are not even and/or are quite large cut them accordingly. You want them to be about 1”x1.5”.
0.398 kg stewing beef
To a large deep pan add 2 tablespoons of oil and heat on medium-high heat. Once hot add the beef and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side to brown.
3 tbsp oil
While the beef browns, prep your veggies. Dice the onion and peel the garlic. If you are adding any other veggies, peel and dice/slice them now.
½ cup yellow onion, 1 medium carrot, 1 celery stalk, 1/2 cup red bell pepper
Once the beef is browned, remove it from the pan and set aside
To the pan add 1 tablespoon of oil, then add the onions and any other veggies you are using. Sautee for a minute or two then press in the garlic. Sauté for another 30 seconds to a minute and add the beef back into the pan.
3 tbsp oil, ½ cup yellow onion, 1 large garlic clove
Pour in the stock and add the bay leaf, marjoram, allspice and paprika. Stir to combine, cover and simmer for 30 minutes stirring occasionally.
2 ½ cups beef stock, 1 bay leaf, ¼ tsp allspice, ½ tsp marjoram, 1 tsp paprika
Next, add the tomato paste, remaining salt and pepper, and simmer for another 15 minutes.
2 tbsp tomato paste
When the 15 minutes are up, make a slurry with ½ tablespoon of cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of water. Add the slurry to the pan and whisk vigorously to prevent clumping. Simmer for 2 minutes to let thicken.
¼ cup cornstarch + ½ tbsp
Serve with your favourite sides.