Creamy Lamb Casserole with Fennel and White Beans

At least a cold, grim and seemingly endless winter can make you appreciate home life and its comforts. On dark, Victorian-seeming nights, what could be nicer than coming home, lighting a fire and smelling the rich aroma of a casserole emerging from the kitchen?

Although this dish uses inexpensive stewing lamb and is extremely simple to make, the result is sophisticated enough to serve at an informal dinner. Broccoli or greens and sautéed potatoes go well.