Name: Guinness Beef Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h 30 min
Total time: 2 h 50 min
Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1.5-inch cubes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 (14.9 oz) can Guinness Draught; 3 cups beef broth; 4 large carrots, sliced; 3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; 2 bay leaves; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Guinness Beef Stew is a rich, hearty dish that combines tender beef, savory vegetables, and the deep, malty flavor of Guinness. Perfect for cold days or comforting weekend dinners, this stew simmers slowly to develop layers of flavor that melt in your mouth. It’s a classic Irish-inspired recipe that pairs beautifully with crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes. Easy to prepare yet impressively flavorful, it’s a stew that’s both satisfying and soul-warming.

Guinness Beef Stew

Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
Salt and pepper, to taste
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
3 celery stalks, sliced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 bottle (12 oz) Guinness
4 cups beef broth
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Beef:
- Pat the beef cubes dry and season with salt and pepper. Toss the beef in flour until evenly coated.
Sear the Beef:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the onions are translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
Add Tomato Paste and Worcestershire Sauce:
- Stir in the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, cooking for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
Deglaze with Guinness:
- Pour in the Guinness and scrape the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Add Broth and Seasonings:
- Return the seared beef to the pot. Add the beef broth, bay leaves, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
Add Potatoes:
- Stir in the diced potatoes and continue simmering for another 20-30 minutes until they are tender.
Finish and Serve:
- Remove bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Total time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Vegetable-Rich Stew: Add parsnips, turnips, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Slow Cooker Version: Brown the beef and sauté vegetables, then transfer to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, adding potatoes in the last hour.
Thicker Stew: Mix 2 tablespoons cornstarch with cold water and stir in at the end to thicken the broth.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, beef chuck is preferred for tenderness, but stew meat or brisket can also be used.

2. Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, after browning the beef and sautéing vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

3. Can I prepare this stew ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Reheat gently before serving.

4. How can I thicken the stew?

Use a cornstarch slurry (2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) and stir it into the simmering stew until thickened.

5. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely. Mushrooms, parsnips, and turnips complement the flavors beautifully.

6. Can I freeze Guinness Beef Stew?

Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

7. How do I prevent the beef from becoming tough?

Simmer gently on low heat and avoid overcooking. Tough cuts become tender with slow, steady cooking.

8. Can I make this stew in an Instant Pot?

Yes, brown the beef using the sauté function, then cook on high pressure for 35-40 minutes with natural release. Add potatoes after 20 minutes for best texture.

9. What can I serve with Guinness Beef Stew?

Serve with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, roasted vegetables, or even buttered noodles for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Guinness Beef Stew is a hearty, flavorful, and comforting dish that combines tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich in a savory broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or special family dinners, this stew is easy to prepare yet full of depth and warmth. With its rich flavor and satisfying texture, it’s a classic that will become a favorite in your home cooking repertoire.

Jane