Beef Stew with Potatoes and Carrots

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 350F with rack in middle.
2. 2
   While beef braises, peel potatoes and cut into 1/2-inch-wide wedges. Slice carrots diagonally (1-inch).
3. 3
   Pat beef dry and season with 2 1/2 teaspoons salt and 1 teaspoon pepper.
4. 4
   Add potatoes and carrots to stew (make sure they are submerged) and simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until potatoes and carrots are tender, about 40 minutes.
5. 5
   Heat oil in pot over medium-high heat until it shimmers, then brown meat, without crowding, in 3 batches, turning, about 8 minutes per batch.
6. 6
   Cooks note:Stew improves in flavor if made at least 1 day ahead. Chill (covered once cool) up to 5 days. Reheat, covered, over medium heat or in a 350F oven.
7. 7
   Transfer to a platter.
8. 8
   Reduce heat to medium, then add carrots, celery, onions, and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until well browned, about 12 minutes.
9. 9
   Push vegetables to one side of pot.
10. 10
    Add tomato paste to cleared area and cook paste, stirring, 2 minutes, then stir into vegetables.
11. 11
    Add vinegar and cook, stirring, 2 minutes.
12. 12
    Stir in wine, bay leaves, and thyme and boil until wine is reduced by about two thirds, 10 to 12 minutes.
13. 13
    Add broth to pot along with water, beef, and any juices from platter and bring to a simmer. Cover and braise in oven until meat is very tender, about 2 1/2 hours.
14. 14
    Set a large colander in a large bowl.
15. 15
    Pour stew into colander. Return pieces of meat to pot, then discard remaining solids.
16. 16
    Let cooking liquid stand 10 minutes.