Beef with water

3/4 lb shallot , halved lengthwise and peeled 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil salt and pepper 3 cups beef broth 3/4 cup port wine 1 1/2 teaspoons tomato paste 2[...]

1 1/2 lbs beef stew meat , cut into 3/4-inch pieces or 1 1/2 lbs venison 1/2 cup flour 2 -3 tablespoons shortening (add more if need be) salt & pepper, season[...]

3 1/2 lbs boneless short ribs (trimmed of excess fat see note and technique below) 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 2 tablespoons[...]