| Prep: 30 mins | Cook: 2 hours | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 480 | 23g | 7g | 40g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 5g | 6g | 32g | 1.9g |
Why I Love British Beef and Guinness Stew
I’m smitten with this traditional British recipe that is aptly named Beef and Guinness Stew. Filling and comforting in nature, it perfectly embodies the rich and wholesome flavors that one would expect from a well executed stew. Laden with chunks of beef, earthy potatoes, sweet carrots, and of course, Guinness beer, this recipe not only satiates your hunger but it also appease your tastebuds with its distinct Irish flair.
The Joy of Old World Flavours
Inspired by chefs like the late Darina Allen, the queen of Irish cuisine, this Beef and Guinness Stew pays homage to the age-old cooking techniques of Europe. The base of this dish relies on high-quality stewing beef, slowly simmered in a concoction of vegetables and Guinness beer. This method not only tenderizes the meat but also develops a depth of flavor that is impossible to achieve otherwise. Moreover, the perfect balance of simple spices creates a flavor profile that sends your taste buds on a trip to the heart of Ireland.
A Symphony of Textures
What truly brings the Beef and Guinness Stew to life is the symphony of textures it offers. The meat, tender and juicy, pairs wonderfully with the contrasting crunch of the carrots, and the creaminess of tender potatoes. Coupled with the silky gravy brought together by a combination of Guinness and beef broth, every spoonful is an experience in itself.
This hearty stew works well with traditional Irish dishes such as Irish brown bread or a side of steamed greens for a lighter pairing. It’s also similar to an Irish pot roast or the classic American beef stew, with a distinct Guinness beer twist. Much like many of our well-loved family recipes, it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together, eliciting fond memories of shared laughter and heartfelt conversations around the dinner table. There is just something about this Beef and Guinness Stew that makes every dining experience feel like a special occasion even in the comfort of your own home.
The next time you find yourself longing for something truly comforting and satisfying, give the Beef and Guinness Stew a try. You may find yourself falling in love with its robust flavors and the warmth it brings to your table. As the saying goes, “Food is the ingredient that binds us together,” and this dish exemplifies exactly that.
What You’ll Need
- 2 pounds stewing beef, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Dash of garlic powder
- 2 large onions, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3 cups Guinness beer
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon thyme, dried
- 6 large carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Handful of fresh parsley, chopped
Method
Step One
Start by seasoning the 2 pounds of stewing beef with salt, pepper, and a dash of garlic powder. Then, coat the beef lightly with 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour.
Step Two
In a large pot, heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Brown the seasoned and floured beef in the oil in batches. Ensure all sides of the beef are browned. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside for later.
Step Three
Without cleaning the pot, add the 2 chopped large onions and the minced garlic clove. Sauté these until the onions become translucent. This should take about 5 minutes. Add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and stir until well blended with the onions.
Step Four
Add the browned beef back into the pot with the onions and tomato paste. Pour in 3 cups of Guinness beer and 3 cups of beef broth. Add the 2 bay leaves and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Allow this mixture to simmer.
Step Five
Add the 6 large carrots and 4 large potatoes to the pot. These should be peeled and cut into large chunks. Allow the stew to cook on medium-low heat for about 2 hours or until the beef is tender. Occasionally stir the stew while it cooks to ensure it doesn’t stick.
Step Six
About 10 minutes before serving, add 1 cup of frozen peas and a handful of fresh chopped parsley. Stir these into the stew and allow them to cook just until heated through. Then, your Beef and Guinness Stew is ready to serve!
