Savor the rich, robust flavors of this Guinness Beef Stew, a classic comfort dish perfect for chilly days or any time you crave a hearty meal. Tender chunks of beef, wholesome vegetables, and a deep, malty Guinness stout broth come together for a satisfying dish. This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes, making it a favorite for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 bottle (11.2 oz or 330ml) Guinness stout
- 3 cups (750ml) beef stock
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
- Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef cubes in batches and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
Step 3: Deglaze with Guinness
- Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to coat.
- Pour in the Guinness stout, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 4: Simmer the Stew
- Add the beef stock, thyme, bay leaves, Worcestershire sauce, and the browned beef back into the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook on low heat for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Add the Potatoes
- Stir in the cubed potatoes and continue cooking for another 30–40 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 6: Finish the Stew
- Remove the bay leaves and taste for seasoning, adjusting with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish the stew with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Serving Suggestions
- Ladle the stew into bowls and serve it with crusty bread, buttered rolls, or Irish soda bread to soak up the rich broth.
- For extra indulgence, serve the stew over creamy mashed potatoes or alongside roasted root vegetables.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2.5–3 hours
- Total Time: ~3 hours
- Calories (per serving): ~420 kcal
- Servings: 6
Tips for the Best Guinness Beef Stew
- Choose the right cut of beef: Opt for well-marbled cuts like beef chuck or brisket, which become tender and flavorful after slow cooking.
- Don’t rush the browning: Take your time searing the beef to develop a rich, caramelized flavor.
- Gluten-free option: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Ensure the Guinness you use is gluten-free as well.
- Flavor boosters: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar to balance the bitterness of the Guinness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes! After browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. Add the potatoes in the last 1–2 hours of cooking.
Can I use a different type of beer?
While Guinness adds a signature richness, you can substitute it with another stout or dark beer. For a milder flavor, use a lager or ale.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I freeze Guinness beef stew?
Absolutely! Cool the stew completely and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Conclusion
This Guinness Beef Stew is a comforting dish that celebrates bold flavors and hearty ingredients. Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any chilly evening, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Pair it with your favorite sides, a frothy pint of Guinness, and enjoy the warmth of this classic Irish-inspired recipe!