This rich and hearty Guinness Beef Stew is perfect for chilly nights. With tender chunks of beef simmered in a flavorful broth, this dish is both filling and delightful!
You can’t go wrong with the hearty taste of Guinness in the stew. I love serving it with crusty bread to soak up all that delicious gravy. Who doesn’t love a cozy meal? 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is great for slow cooking, making it tender and flavorful. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using sirloin or brisket, but keep in mind that they may not be as juicy.
Guinness Stout: This gives the stew its rich flavor. If you can’t find Guinness, any dark beer will do, like a porter or stout. For a non-alcoholic version, use beef broth with a splash of vinegar for some acidity.
Mushrooms: They add depth to the stew. If you’re not a fan, you can use more carrots or parsnips instead. Shiitake or cremini are great options if you want a stronger mushroom flavor.
Tomato Paste: It enhances the stew’s flavor. If you prefer a fresh taste, you can substitute it with crushed tomatoes or even some tomato sauce.
What’s the Best Way to Brown the Beef for More Flavor?
Browning the beef is a key step as it develops a deep flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your pot is hot before adding oil. This prevents the meat from steaming.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot; brown the beef in batches. This allows even cooking and good caramelization.
- Be patient! Let each side brown for a few minutes before flipping, and don’t move it too much.
Taking these steps will give you a richer, more flavorful stew. Happy cooking!
How to Make Hearty Guinness Beef Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs (900g) beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 (14.9 oz) can Guinness stout beer
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Mashed potatoes, to serve
Liquid & Flavorings:
For Garnish:
Optional:
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty stew requires about 15 minutes for prep and around 2 to 2.5 hours of cooking. Most of the time is hands-off as it slowly simmers on the stove, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Beef:
Start by generously seasoning your beef cubes with salt and black pepper. This will give the meat a great flavor base!
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the beef cubes in batches. Brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes, then remove them from the pot and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Sauté the chopped onion for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook it for another minute until you can smell its delicious aroma.
4. Add Carrots and Mushrooms:
Next, add the sliced mushrooms and carrot chunks. Cook them together for about 5 minutes, allowing them to caramelize a little for that rich flavor.
5. Stir in the Flour:
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring continuously to coat everything well. Let it cook for about 2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste.
6. Pour in the Guinness:
Slowly pour in the Guinness stout while scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This is where the magic happens!
7. Add Remaining Ingredients:
Pour in the beef broth, add the tomato paste, dried thyme, bay leaves, and the browned beef back to the pot. Mix everything together well.
8. Simmer the Stew:
Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook gently for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally and enjoy the wonderful smells!
9. Final Touches:
Once the stew is done, remove the bay leaves, taste the stew, and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add a little more salt or pepper, depending on your preference.
10. Serve:
Dish out the stew hot, garnishing with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes if you like—they’re perfect for soaking up all that delicious gravy!
Enjoy your hearty Guinness Beef Stew! It’s comfort food at its finest.
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Yes! While beef chuck is perfect for stews due to its marbling, you can substitute it with brisket or round. Just keep in mind that these cuts may not be as tender, so you might need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I Omit the Beer from This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use beer, substitute it with additional beef broth or a mix of broth and a splash of vinegar or Worcestershire sauce for a similar depth of flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Guinness Beef Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
What Can I Serve With This Stew?
This stew pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or even buttered noodles. For a lighter option, consider serving it with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
