Sin City Ragù

Ingredients

• 1 (2-pound) chuck roast, cut into 2-inch-thick cubes
• kosher salt, to taste
• freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 5 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/4 cup red wine
• 1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes
• 1/4 cup water
• 3 sprigs thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
• spaghetti, to taste, cooked and warm
• parmesan, to taste, freshly grated
• fresh parsley, to taste, chopped