Weeknight Beef Bourguignon

Cook bacon in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until crisp, about 4 minutes. Remove bacon and set aside. Remove and set aside bacon fat (about 3 Tbsp/45 mL). Season beef, if desired, with salt and pepper. Heat 1 Tbsp (15 mL) reserved bacon fat in same skillet over medium-high heat. Add half of the beef and cook, turning to brown all sides, 3 minutes or until desired doneness. Remove beef and repeat with another 1 Tbsp (15 mL) bacon fat and remaining beef. Remove beef and set aside.

Heat remaining bacon fat in same skillet over medium-high heat and cook mushrooms, carrots and onion, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are golden, about 6 minutes. Sprinkle flour into skillet; add tomato paste and cook, stirring, 1 minute. Stir in wine and bring to a boil. Boil until most of the wine evaporates, about 2 minutes. Stir in water and Knorr® Homestyle Stock Beef and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until mixture thickens, about 2 minutes. Return beef to skillet and heat through.

Sprinkle with bacon and garnish, if desired, with chopped fresh thyme.