Red Beef Stew

Directions

1. 1
   Over medium high heat, bring a large pot of water to boil and add beef, boil for 10 seconds. Drain, and rinse under cold water for 1 minute. Set aside.
2. 2
   In a small bowl combine next 5 ingredients (onion - star anise). Set aside.
3. 3
   In another small bowl or cup combine next 5 ingredients (soy sauce - salt). Set aside.
4. 4
   Over high heat heat hot chili oil in a wok or large skillet.
5. 5
   Add onion mixture to wok and stir-fry 2 minutes.
6. 6
   Stir in beef and stir-fry 3 minutes.
7. 7
   Transfer mixture to large sauce pan or pot, adding 2 3/4 cups water. Bring to a boil.
8. 8
   Reduce heat, cover and simmer until beef is tender (1 hour and 40 minutes), stirring occasionally. You may need to add more water.
9. 9
   Stir in carrots. Cover and simmer until tender (20 minutes), stirring occasionally.
10. 10
    Remove chilies and star anise - discard.
11. 11
    Increase heat to high.
12. 12
    In a small cup dissolve cornstarch in 1/4 cup water. Stir into stew, stirring for 1 1/2 minutes.
13. 13
    Transfer to serving dish (over egg noddles or rice, if desired), garnishing with green onions.