Golden special bird

Method
Prep:10min  ›  Cook:1hr50min  ›  Extra time:5min resting  ›  Ready in:2hr5min 

1. Using a deep casserole or cast iron pot with lid, heat the olive oil. Add the pancetta or bacon lardons, the shallots and three of the garlic cloves, cook over a medium heat until golden, lift onto a plate. Season the chicken and place the remaining garlic inside, then place in the pot and gently brown all over in the fat, carefully turning the bird over. This will take about 15 minutes.
2. Heat the oven to 170 C / Gas 3. Carefully pour in the Special London Ale and bring to simmer, stir in the chicken stock then return the pancetta, shallots and garlic to the pot. Bring to simmering, add the rosemary then cover.
3. Bake in the oven for 1 hour. Add the carrots and return to the oven and cook, uncovered for another 30 minutes.
4. Lift the chicken onto a warm serving dish with the shallots and carrots, cover to keep warm. Strain the cooking liquid into a jug then pour back into the pan. Boil until reduced by about one-third. Mash the flour and butter with a fork to make a paste, then add, a little at a time whisking so the sauce thickens slightly. Season if needed. Carve the chicken and serve with the beer sauce and accompany with seasonal vegetables, and new potatoes boiled or mashed potatoes.

Tip

To make it easier to peel the shallots, cover with boiling water, leave to stand for 5 minutes then drain.