HERBY BEEF STEW

Steps:

• Heat 2 tablespoons of the oil in a large saucepan; add the onions and carrots and cook over a medium heat for about 8 minutes, until softened and lightly browned.
• Remove the vegetables with a slotted spoon, transfer to a plate or dish and reserve.
• Add another 1 tablespoon of oil to the pan and add the beef cubes.
• Increase the heat and cook until the meat is browned all over.
• If necessary, fry the meat in batches to ensure it browns evenly; season to taste.
• Return the vegetables to the pan and stir in the flour and the remaining oil.
• Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
• Add the beef stock, coffee, oregano and bay leaf.
• Bring to a boil and cook, stirring often, until thickened; reduce the heat to very low.
• Cover the pan and allow the stew to simmer very gently for at least 1 or 1½ hours until the beef is tender.
• Add the peas and simmer for a further 5-10 minutes.
• Discard the bay leaf; taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
• Serve hot with mashed potatoes.