Beef Ragu

beef chuck roast, (cut into 6 large equal pieces)

Fine sea salt and freshly cracked pepper

and 1/2 tablespoons olive oil, (separated)

mirepoix ((diced onion, carrots, celery -- I use a cup of each))

and 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic

100% grape juice

crushed fire-roasted tomatoes (I HIGHLY recommend Muir Glen Organic fire-roasted crushed tomatoes)

tomato paste

EACH: dried thyme, dried basil, dried oregano

bay leaves

large beef bouillon cube**

and 1/2 pounds dried pappardelle pasta

packages (8 ounces EACH) pappardelle pasta (I recommend DeLallo's brand)

Reserved pasta water

Freshly grated parmesan cheese and finely chopped fresh parsley (optional)