BEEF AND BEER CASSEROLE

1 1/2 lb chuck steak
salt and pepper
2 tbsp oil
5 slices bacon
1 lb onions, sliced
1 garlic clove, crushed
1 1/2 tsp sugar
1/4 cup flour
1 1/4 cups beer
1 1/4 cups beef stock
3 tbsp vinegar
1 bouquet garni

Cut the meat into bite-sized pieces, season with salt and pepper and brown in the hot oil.

Add the chopped bacon and cook for 5 minutes. Remove the meat and bacon and place in a casserole dish.* Top with onion and garlic; sprinkle with sugar. Set aside.

Gradually stir the flour into the drippings in the pan. Brown over low heat. Gradually add beer, beef stock, and vinegar, stirring constantly. Pour the sauce over the meat in the casserole and add the bouquet garni.

Bake covered in a 300 degree F oven for 3 1/2 to 4 hours.

Before serving, remove the bouquet garni and stir in the vinegar.

*TO COOK IN A CROCK POT:
Alternatively, after meat is browned, place in a crockpot along with bacon onion and garlic, add sugar, pour over sauce, toss in bouquet garni and cook on Low for 7-9 hours.

Serves 4-6
Source: Wonderful Ways to Prepare Stews and Casseroles by Jo Ann Shirley