Beef Guinness Stew Irish Recipe - Cooking-Together.co (2024)

In this culinary adventure, we’re about to embark on a journey to create a mouthwatering Guinness Beef Stew. This hearty dish is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for a cozy evening at home or a gathering with friends and family. With its rich flavors and tender chunks of beef, this stew is a true crowd-pleaser. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking!

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2.5 lb / 1.25 kg beef chuck, boneless short rib, or any other slow-cooking beef (no bone)
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 3/4 tsp black pepper
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 onions, chopped (brown, white, or yellow)
• 6 oz / 180g bacon, speck, or pancetta, diced
• 3 tbsp flour (all-purpose/plain)
• 440ml / 14.9 oz Guinness Beer
• 4 tbsp tomato paste
• 3 cups (750 ml) chicken stock/broth (or beef broth)
• 3 carrots, peeled and cut into 1.25 cm / 1/2″ thick pieces
• 2 large celery stalks, cut into 2cm / 1″ pieces
• 2 bay leaves
• 3 sprigs thyme (or substitute with 1 tsp dried thyme leaves)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Begin by cutting the beef into 5cm/2″ chunks. Pat the beef chunks dry with paper towels and then sprinkle them with salt and black pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a heavy-based pot over high heat. Add the beef in batches and brown it well on all sides. Once browned, remove the beef chunks onto a plate. Repeat this process with the remaining beef. Lower the heat to medium. If the pot looks dry, add a bit more olive oil.
3. Cook the minced garlic and chopped onions for about 3 minutes until they begin to soften. Then, add the diced bacon and cook until it becomes browned and crispy.
4. Stir in the chopped carrots and celery, and continue cooking for a few minutes. Add the flour to the pot and stir for about 1 minute to cook off the raw flour taste.
5. Pour in the Guinness beer, chicken stock (or beef broth), and tomato paste. Mix well to ensure the flour dissolves properly. Add the bay leaves and thyme sprigs to the pot.
6. Return the browned beef chunks (including any juices) to the pot. Ensure that the liquid level just covers the beef. Cover the pot with a lid, lower the heat to a gentle simmer, and cook for 2 hours.
7. The beef should become quite tender during this time. After 2 hours, remove the lid and simmer for an additional 30 to 45 minutes, or until the beef easily falls apart when touched, and the sauce has reduced and thickened slightly. If desired, skim off any excess fat from the surface of the stew.
8. Taste the stew and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference. Remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs. Serve your delicious Guinness Beef Stew alongside creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting and hearty meal. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I substitute Guinness Beer with another type of beer? A: While Guinness adds a unique flavor, you can experiment with other stout or dark beers to achieve a similar depth of taste.

Q: Is it necessary to brown the beef first? A: Yes, browning the beef enhances its flavor and helps create a rich, savory base for the stew.

Q: Can I make this stew in a slow cooker? A: Absolutely! After browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze it for longer storage.

Q: Can I add more vegetables to the stew? A: Certainly! Feel free to include potatoes, peas, or mushrooms for additional flavor and nutrition.

Q: What should I serve with this stew besides mashed potatoes? A: Crusty bread, rice, or a fresh green salad are excellent options to complement this hearty dish.

In this culinary journey, we’ve uncovered the secrets to creating a mouthwatering Guinness Beef Stew that’s perfect for any occasion. With a rich, savory flavor and tender chunks of beef, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and savor the delightful flavors of this comforting stew. Enjoy your culinary adventure!