Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Combine Ingredients for the Stew:
Deglaze the Pot: Add the beef broth to the pot, scraping the bottom to lift any browned bits that have stuck to the pan. These bits add flavor to the stew.
Add Seasonings: Stir in the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, thyme, bay leaf, paprika, black pepper, and salt to taste. Mix until the seasonings are evenly distributed.
Return the Beef: Add the browned beef cubes back into the pot, stirring to coat the beef in the sauce. If you like, add the sliced carrots and diced potatoes at this point for added texture and flavor.
Slow Cook the Beef Carbonnade:
Simmer the Stew: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Allow the beef to braise for 2-2.5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally.
Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If the stew is too thin, mix 3 tablespoons of flour with a little cold water to make a slurry. Stir it into the pot and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Serve and Enjoy:
Taste and Adjust: Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper if needed.
Serve: Remove the bay leaf and serve the Beef Carbonnade in bowls, ideally with crusty bread on the side or over mashed potatoes for a full, satisfying meal.