500g lean boneless beef sirloin
1/4 tsp fresh ginger, chopped
1/2 lb potatoes
1/4 tsp ground Sichuan pepper corns
1 large carrot
5 tsp vegetable oil
2 cups water
1 tbsp Soya sauce
1 tbsp coriander, chopped
Salt to taste
1/2 tsp scallion, shredded

Beef Braised With Potatoes

1. Wash the beef and cut into 30mm chunks. Place in a pot of cold water to cover and bring to a boil for 1 minute. When boiled, remove, drain the beef and set aside.
2. Peel and wash the potatoes and cut into triangles or chunks the same size as the beef. Peel the carrot and dice or cut into small slices.
3. Heat the water in a wok, or a pot or a casserole, and add the scallions, ginger, and ground pepper corn.
4. Add the beef chunks and vegetable oil, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a slow simmer. Cover and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beef is cooked but fork-tender.
5. Add the potatoes, carrots, Soya sauce, and salt. Continue simmering until the beef is tender, checking the water and replenishing if necessary.
6. If excess water remains when the beef is cooked, reduce to the desired amount by boiling over high heat.
7. Add the MSG (optional) and sprinkle the coriander over the beef and serve.