6 thick slices bacon, diced
1 pot roast, lean boneless beef chuck, about 4 pounds
salt and freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons flour
1 large onion, about 1 1/2 to 2 cups, chopped
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups (12 ounces) beer
1 1/2 cups low sodium beef broth
1 bay leaf
1/2 teaspoon dried rubbed sage
1/4 teaspoon dried leaf thyme
3 carrots, cut in 1/2- to 1-inch pieces
1 small rutabaga, cut in 1/2- to 1-inch chunks
1 1/2 pounds potatoes, cut in 1/2-inch chunks
1/2 cup cold water, optional
3 tablespoons flour, optional