Beef with basil

1 (3 -4 lb) chuck roast (okay to use from frozen state) 1 small onion , very thinly sliced 4 large garlic cloves , very thinly sliced 3 cups full-bodied red[...]

1 1/2 lbs ground beef 1 small onion , minced 1 small garlic clove , minced 1 tablespoon chili powder 1 teaspoon paprika 1/8 teaspoon dried basil leaves 1/8[...]

2 tablespoons butter 1 1/2 lbs boneless chuck roast, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces 1 (16 ounce) package frozen small whole onions 1/2 cup merlot or 1/2 cup beef[...]