Add the pancetta and fry for 1-2 mins or until golden brown, then tip in the shallot, onions and garlic and fry for a further 2-3 mins or until browned. Return the browned beef to the pan and mix well with the other ingredients.

Pour in the brandy and carefully set it alight to burn off the alcohol, then add the wine and stock and bring to a simmer. Add the bouquet garni, then cover and cook on a low heat for 2 hrs or until tender and thickened. Alternatively, cook in the oven at 140°C, gas mark 1, for 2 hrs, or in a slow cooker for approximately 3-4 hrs.

Half an hour before the meat is cooked, blanch the baby onions in boiling water for 30 secs, then peel. Place a separate frying pan over a high heat, add the butter and a little olive oil and fry the onions for 2-3 mins or until just golden, then add to the casserole for the last 20 mins of cooking time.