Szechuan Beef Stew

Directions

Cut beef into 2 inch cubes.

Combine garlic, 2 tablespoon soy sauce and 1 teaspoon sugar in large bowl; stir in beef cubes until well coated.

Let stand 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, combine 1 cup water, remaining 2 tablespoon soy sauce, 2 teaspoon sugar, red pepper, fennel, black pepper, cloves and ginger; set aside.

Heat oil in Dutch oven or large skillet over high heat.

Brown beef on all sides in hot oil.

Stir in soy sauce mixture.

Bring to boil; reduce heat and simmer, covered, 2 hours, or until beef is very tender.

Combine cornstarch with 2 tablespoon water; stir into beef mixture.

Cook and stir until mixture boils and thickens, about 1 minute.