Beef and Guinness Stew

Beef and Guinness Stew is a hearty dish that warms both the body and the soul. This comforting meal combines tender beef, crispy bacon, and fresh vegetables, all simmered together with rich dark beer. It’s perfect for chilly nights, gatherings with family and friends, or any time you need a delicious and filling meal.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to try Beef and Guinness Stew. First, it is a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup for you. Second, the combination of flavors creates a rich and savory taste that everyone will love. Finally, it is easy to prepare, and you can make it ahead of time, making it great for busy days.

How to Make Beef and Guinness Stew

Ingredients:

• 4 slices bacon, cut into small pieces
• 2.5 pounds boneless beef chuck, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1.5 teaspoons salt, divided, or more to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 onions, coarsely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.9 ounce) can dark beer (such as Guinness®)
• 0.25 cup tomato paste
• 3 carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 stalks celery, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 teaspoon white sugar
• 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
• 2.5 cups chicken stock, or as needed to cover
• 4 cups mashed potatoes

Directions:

1. Gather all ingredients.
2. Cook and stir bacon in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until browned and crisp, about 3 to 4 minutes. Turn off heat and move bacon to a large stew pot, keeping the fat in the skillet.
3. Season beef cubes with 1 teaspoon salt and black pepper to taste. Turn heat high again and sear beef on all sides in the hot fat for about 5 minutes. Transfer beef to the stew pot with bacon.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Cook onions in the remaining fat until lightly browned, about 5 to 8 minutes, adding a pinch of salt.
5. Add garlic to the onions and cook until soft, about 1 minute. Then pour in the beer, scraping up any browned bits left in the pan.
6. Pour this liquid into the stew pot. Stir in tomato paste, carrots, celery, thyme, sugar, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Add enough chicken stock to cover the ingredients.
7. Bring the stew to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer until the beef is fork-tender, about 2 hours.
8. Stir occasionally and skim off any fat or foam if you like.
9. Remove the lid and increase heat to medium-high. Bring to a low boil and cook until the stew thickens slightly, about 15 to 20 minutes. Discard thyme sprigs and adjust seasoning to taste.
10. Serve by arranging mashed potatoes in a ring on a plate and ladling stew into the center.

How to Serve Beef and Guinness Stew

Beef and Guinness Stew is best served hot. Place a generous amount of stew in the middle of a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. You can also add some crusty bread on the side for dipping.

How to Store Beef and Guinness Stew

To store leftover stew, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.

Tips to Make Beef and Guinness Stew

• For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a bay leaf while it simmers and removing it before serving.
• Be sure not to rush the simmering process; allowing the stew to cook slowly will make the beef even more tender.
• If you prefer a thicker stew, you can add a little cornstarch mixed with water towards the end of cooking.

Variations

You can customize this recipe by adding different vegetables like potatoes or parsnips. Additionally, replace the beef with lamb for a different twist, or use a non-alcoholic beer for a family-friendly version.

FAQs

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes! You can sear the beef and cook the bacon in a skillet first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.

Is it necessary to use Guinness beer?

While Guinness adds a rich flavor, you can use any dark beer you like. Just make sure it has a strong taste.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely! This stew tastes even better the day after it’s made, so feel free to prepare it a day in advance. Just reheat before serving.