Classic french flemish beef stew, is not, in fact, french, but the national dish of belgium but is also loved by the french. This dish is also known as carbonnades flamandes (literally "Flemish stew") and is hearty and satisfying that is not only nice enough to serve for a sit-down family meal would make a real treat at your next dinner party. The best part? It takes less than two hours to prepare. To serve the stew, add a crisp green salad, roasted potatoes on the side and don't forget a good bottle of wine for a spectacular feast worthy of an upscale auberge du terroir ("Local inn") on a chilly evening. If serving the stew for a family supper, don't worry about the beer in the recipe. The alcohol cooks off leaving only a deep depth of flavor and no intoxicating effects.