Heat the 2 teaspoons of oil in a saucepan or deep skillet on medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mushrooms and spread them out, so they're not overlapping, and let them sit for 1 to 2 minutes, then flip them, and continue to let them sit and cook for a few minutes. At this point, add a sprinkle of salt and pepper. You can also add some dried herbs like thyme, if you like. Let the mushrooms cook for another 2 minutes or so, then cover with the lid, and continue to cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Open the lid, and check if the mushrooms are done. Depending on the thickness and type of mushrooms, you might need to cook them a few minutes longer. When the mushrooms are golden brown and cooked to preference, remove them from the saucepan.

Add the remaining teaspoon of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the onion, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Mix in, then reduce the heat to medium, and cook until the onion is golden, about 4 to 5 minutes. (Add splashes of water in between and stir, to help the onion cook evenly). Then, add in the bay leaves, herbs, salt, pepper, and flour, mixing well. Add the balsamic or wine, the soy sauce, and the tomato paste. Add ½ cup stock and mix in the tomato paste and flour well, then add in the rest of the stock and the carrots, then bring to a boil. Cover and cook for 4-5 minutes or until carrots are cooked.

Mix in the beans, and simmer for a few minutes, until the stew thickens to preference. Taste and adjust the salt and flavor, and then fold in the reserved mushrooms or use the mushrooms to top the stew in the serving bowls.

Serve topped with parsley, green onions, black pepper, and a squeeze of lime juice with a nicely toasted sourdough, garlic bread, dinner rolls or any other side that you like to go with it.