Beef Casserole with Herb Dumplings

A hearty beef casserole using cubes of shin or chuck steak served with herb dumplings. A great weekend dish

Method

1. Preheat the oven to Gas mark 3, 170°C, 325°F. Heat the oil in a large non-stick pan, season the beef and cook for 4-5 minutes in batches until brown and transfer to a 1.7L/3pint ovenproof casserole dish.
2. In the same pan add the shallots or onions, garlic, carrots and parsnips and
3. cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in the flour, cook for 1-2 minutes then spoon into the casserole dish.
4. Add the stock, brandy or cognac, if used, horseradish sauce and herbs. Bring to the boil and reduce the heat. Cover and cook in the oven for 1½-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
5. To prepare the dumplings; put the flour and salt into a large bowl and rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Add the remaining ingredients. Mix together to form a smooth dough and shape into 8 medium-sized balls.
6. 20-25 minutes before the end of the cooking time remove the casserole from the oven, adjust the seasoning, add the dumplings and return to the oven uncovered.
7. Serve with creamy mash and braised Savoy cabbage.

Notes

For a more traditional dumpling recipe replace the butter with beef suet.