Easy Beef and Leek Stew in Chive Popovers

• 1 1/4 lb (625 g) stew beef
• 2 tbsp (25 mL) olive oil
• 4 small leeks, thickly sliced
• 4 carrots, cut in 1-inch (2.5 cm) chunks
• 2 tbsp (25 mL) all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper
• 2 tbsp (25 mL) balsamic vinegar
• 2 1/2 cups (625 mL) beef stock
• 1/3 cup (75 mL) sun-dried tomato strips
• 1 tsp (5 mL) dried thyme
• Pinch hot pepper flakes
• Chive Popovers (recipe follows)
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup (250 mL) milk
• 1 cup (250 mL) all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp (25 mL) snipped fresh chives or green onions
• 1/2 tsp (2 mL) salt

1. Cut beef into 2-inch (5 cm) cubes.
2. In large saucepan, heat oil over medium-high heat; brown beef all over, about 10 minutes.
3. Add leeks and carrots; cook for 5 minutes, stirring often.
4. Sprinkle with flour, and salt and pepper to taste; cook for 3 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Stir in vinegar, then stock, 1 cup (250 mL) water, sun-dried tomatoes, thyme and hot pepper flakes; bring to boil, scraping up any brown bits from bottom of pan.
6. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally and adding a bit more water if necessary.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning.
8. Split open popovers and serve stew on top.
9. For the Chive Popovers:
10. In large bowl, beat eggs; stir in milk, flour, chives and salt until blended.
11. (Dont overmix; ignore a few lumps.)
12. Fill 12 well-greased muffin cups three-quarters full with batter.
13. Place in cold oven.
14. Turn oven to 450F (230C); bake for 25 minutes.
15. Remove and prick each popover with point of sharp knife to release steam.
16. Bake for 5 to 10 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
17. (Popovers can be cooled, placed on cookie sheet, covered with clean towel and set aside at room temperature for up to 8 hours.
18. Reheat in 350F/180C oven for 5 to 10 minutes.)

beef, olive oil, leeks, carrots, flour, salt, balsamic vinegar, beef stock, tomato strips, thyme, hot pepper, chive popovers, eggs, milk, flour, fresh chives, salt

Taken from www.cookstr.com/recipes/easy-beef-and-leek-stew-in-chive-popovers (may not work)