epicurean creation

so, many of my blog posts have been about the art i create--visual art that is. today i indulged in another favorite hobby of mine--creating edible art. beef stew is a simple rustic dish that wheb done well has layers of flavor--the meatiness of the beef, the rich aroma created from wine and the blend of herbs. below you will find the recipe i use when making beef stew, it's simple, hearty, and delicious.

ingredients:

1 lb of stew meat
1 large red onion, chopped
3 cloves of garlic, crushed
4 med red potatoes chopped
1 small bag of baby carrots
2 tsp thyme
1-2 bay leaves
beef broth
1-2 C red wine
2 tbs tomato paste
oil
flour
1 small bag frozen peas
salt & pepper to taste

directions:

dredge meat in flour and brown in a small amount of oil.
in the same oil, saute onion and garlic over low heat.
when onion becomes translucent stir in tomato paste and coat onions with it.
stir in the mine to this mixture, making sure you scrape up the bits on the pan leftover from browning the meat.
after wine has reduced by 1/4-1/2, add potatoes, carrots and meat. stir in enough broth to almost cover the mixture.
add herbs and salt and paper. raise heat and bring to a simmer. cover and reduce heat. cook until meat is tender, 1-2 hours.
when meat is done, remove from heat and add peas, serve immediately.