Scotch Beef Carbonnade

675 g lean Scotch Beef PGI braising steak, cut into 1.25cm (1/2") cubes

3 tbsp flour, seasoned with black pepper and salt

1 tbsp oil

2 onions, peeled and sliced

1 clove garlic, crushed

1 tbsp tomato purée

1 tbsp English mustard

300 ml brown ale

300 ml stock

1 tsp brown sugar

1 bouquet garni

Black pepper

2 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks

2 parsnips, peeled and cut into chunks

For the Garlic and Herb Croutons:

Half a French stick, sliced into 8

25 g butter or margarine

1-2 cloves garlic, crushed

1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped