Beef Stew without fennel shells cognac

1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil 1 1/2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch pieces 3 1/2 cups halved mushrooms (about 8 ounces) 2 cups diagonally cut carrot 1 1/2[...]

2 medium onions, quartered lengthwise 1/4 cup butter 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger 1 tablespoon each ground paprika and cayenne (see notes) 1 teaspoon each[...]