Lamb Stew (Mijoté)

In a heavy pan, heat the olive oil to medium-high. Salt and pepper the lamb, then brown the cubes a few at a time. Remove and set them aside. On medium heat, cook the bacon for 5 minutes. Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, and cook for 5 minutes. Add lamb, tomatoes, and fine herbs, with enough water to immerse the whole stew. Let simmer covered on low heat for 1 hour while stirring regularly. Cook until the lamb is tender. Ten minutes before the end of cooking, stir in the kidney beans. Then mix the olive oil and breadcrumbs in a small bowl, and pour the mixture onto the stew. Broil until browned.