Step 1

Heat half the oil in a large frying pan over high heat. Cook the beef, in 4 batches, turning occasionally, for 5 mins or until brown all over. Transfer to a slow cooker.

Step 2

Heat remaining oil in the pan over medium heat. Cook the onion, celery, carrot, mushroom, garlic and bacon, stirring occasionally, for 5 mins or until vegetables begin to brown. Sprinkle over the flour. Cook, stirring, for 2 mins or until well combined. Add to the beef in the slow cooker. Pour over the wine, tomato and stock. Add the bay leaves, thyme and rosemary. Cook for 4 hours on high (or 6 hours on low) or until meat is very tender.

Step 3

Preheat oven to 200°C. To make the cheesy dumplings, combine the flour, cornmeal, chives, rosemary, thyme and ½ cup (60g) of the cheddar in a bowl. Season. Make a well in the centre. Add the butter and buttermilk and stir until just combined.

Step 4

Transfer beef mixture to a casserole pan. Spoon over the dumpling mixture. Bake, covered, for 10 mins or until dumplings are just cooked through. Sprinkle with the remaining cheddar. Bake, uncovered, for 5-7 mins or until cheddar melts and is golden brown.