Boiled Beef and Carrots

• 4-5 lbs salt beef (brisket or silverside) tied firmly with string
• 1½-2 lbs large carrots, scraped and halved

Always check with the butcher to see if the beef needs soaking, and if so soak overnight. Put it in a large saucepan with any bones that the butcher may have included, barely cover with cold water and bring it slowly to the boil. Skim thoroughly and add half the vegetables and the herbs and peppercorns. Cover and simmer very gently for 2½-3 hours, longer if th