Bistro Beef Stew

Ingredients

• 3 slices bacon, cut into small pieces
• 3 lbs cubed beef stew meat
• 2 large carrots, peeled and cut into large chunks
• 1 medium onion, cut into thin slices
• 3 medium garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lb mushroom, stemed and cut into 1/4 inch slices
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 1 1/4 cups low sodium beef broth
• 2 cups red wine, such as cabernet sauvignon
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 bay leaf