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    Spicy Beef and Sweet Potato Stew

    This stew features tender chunks of beef, sweet potatoes, and a rich, slightly spicy broth infused with F N Good Food Garlic Herb Umami Bomb seasoning.

    Ingredients:

    For the stew:

    - 2 lbs (900g) stewing beef, cut into 1-inch cubes
    - 2 tablespoons olive oil
    - 1 large onion, diced
    - 4 garlic cloves, minced
    - 2 celery stalks, diced
    - 2 carrots, peeled and diced
    - 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
    - 1 can (14 oz/400g) diced tomatoes
    - 2 tablespoons tomato paste
    - 4 cups beef broth
    - 1 cup red wine (optional, substitute with more broth if preferred)
    - 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
    - 2 bay leaves
    - 1 cup frozen peas (optional, for added colour and sweetness)
    - Salt and pepper to taste
    - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

    For the side:

    - Steamed rice or crusty bread

    Instructions:

    1. Brown the beef:
       - Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.  
       - Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.  
       - Brown the beef in batches, ensuring each piece gets a nice sear on all sides (about 5 minutes per batch). Remove and set aside.

    2. Sauté the vegetables:  
       - Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pot.  
       - Add the onion, garlic, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.

    3. Deglaze and build the stew:
       - Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavour.  
       - If using red wine, pour it in and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.  
       - Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, F N Good Food Garlic Herb Umami Bomb seasoning

    4. Simmer the stew:
       - Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the sweet potato chunks.  
       - Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, covered, for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender. Stir occasionally.

    5. Finish with peas (optional):
       - Stir in the frozen peas (if using) and cook for another 5 minutes until heated through  
       - Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

    6. Serve
       - Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.  
       - Serve with steamed rice or crusty bread on the side.

    This stew is hearty, flavourful, and perfect for a cozy dinner.

    Enjoy!