Bacon adds a smokiness and coffee contributes richer flavor in this delicious braised beef dish, strongly reminiscent of beef stroganoff.

Braised Beef with Bacon and Mushrooms

3 slices smoked bacon cut into 1/2-inch pieces

2 medium onions thick sliced

6 ounces sliced mushrooms

About 3 pounds beef chuck roast
2 cups strong black coffee
2 cups beef stock or bouillon
2 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoons black pepper
1 teaspoon thyme
3 tablespoons butter, melted
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sour cream

Hot cooked noodles or rice for accompaniment

1. In a Dutch oven over medium-high heat, fry bacon until slightly crisp. Add the onions and mushrooms and cook until onion is softened, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove bacon mixture from pan; set aside.
2. In the same Dutch oven, brown the beef roast on all sides over medium heat.
3. Return bacon mixture to Dutch oven with the beef and add the coffee, stock, salt, pepper, and thyme.
4. Cover and reduce heat to low and simmer for 3 to 4 hours, or until beef is fork-tender.
5. Combine the melted butter and flour, mixing well. Stir mixture into the braised beef; bring to a boil and cook over medium heat until thickened, about 3 to 4 minutes.
6. Stir in sour cream and cook just until heated through, do not boil.
7. Serve over hot cooked noodles or rice.

Makes 8 servings.