Beef and Guinness Stew

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Why Make This Recipe

Beef and Guinness Stew is a hearty dish that warms your soul, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or chilly nights. The combination of tender beef, savory vegetables, and rich Guinness beer creates a flavor experience that is hard to beat. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made in large batches, making it great for sharing or leftovers.

How to Make Beef and Guinness Stew

Ingredients:

  • 2 1/2 lb beef chuck boneless short rib
  • 6 oz bacon speck or pancetta, diced
  • 2 onions, chopped
  • 3 carrots, peeled and cut into 1 1/4 cm thick pieces
  • 2 large celery stalks, cut into 2 cm pieces
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 3 sprigs thyme or 1 tsp dried thyme leaves
  • 4 tbsp tomato paste
  • 3 cups chicken or beef broth
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 440 ml Guinness Beer
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 3/4 tsp black pepper
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

Directions

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the bacon and cook until crispy.
  2. Remove the bacon and set it aside. In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened.
  3. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant.
  4. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir for a minute.
  5. Pour in the Guinness, followed by the broth, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
  6. Add the beef and bacon back into the pot.
  7. Bring to a simmer, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook for 2-3 hours until the beef is tender. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve.

How to Serve Beef and Guinness Stew

Serve the Beef and Guinness Stew hot, ideally in a deep bowl. It pairs well with crusty bread or mashed potatoes, which are great for soaking up the delicious sauce. You can also garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and extra flavor.

How to Store Beef and Guinness Stew

To store leftover stew, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay good in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze it in freezer-safe containers, and it will last for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tips to Make Beef and Guinness Stew

  • For the best flavor, use quality beef and good-quality Guinness beer.
  • Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as potatoes or parsnips.
  • If you want a thicker stew, let it simmer longer uncovered to reduce the liquid.

Variation

You can make a lighter version by using leaner cuts of beef and replacing part of the beef broth with vegetables or mushroom broth. This adds a different flavor without compromising too much on the heartiness.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use a different type of beer?
A1: Yes, you can use other dark beers like stout or porter. Just note that the flavor will change slightly.

Q2: Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
A2: Absolutely! Brown the beef and bacon in a pan first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Q3: Is this dish suitable for freezing?
A3: Yes, Beef and Guinness Stew freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before storing it in the freezer.

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