Guinness Beef Stew
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2.5 to 3 hours
Total Time: About 3 hours 15 minutes
Ingredients:
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2.5 lbs (1.1 kg) beef chuck, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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3 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
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1 large onion, chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons tomato paste
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1 bottle (11.2 oz / 330 ml) Guinness Draught (not Extra Stout)
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3 cups beef broth (low sodium recommended)
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3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
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2–3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
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2 celery stalks, sliced
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1 teaspoon dried thyme (or a few sprigs of fresh thyme)
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2 bay leaves
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Optional: 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce for depth
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef
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Pat beef dry with paper towels.
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Season generously with salt and pepper.
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Toss beef in flour to coat lightly on all sides.
2. Brown the Beef
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Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat.
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Brown the beef in batches, turning to sear all sides. Do not overcrowd the pan.
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Transfer browned beef to a plate.
3. Build the Base
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Reduce heat to medium.
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Add 1 tablespoon oil to the same pot.
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Add onions and cook until soft and lightly browned, about 5–7 minutes.
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Stir in garlic and tomato paste, cook for 1 minute.
4. Deglaze with Guinness
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Pour in the Guinness, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits.
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Simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Simmer the Stew
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Return beef to the pot.
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Add beef broth, carrots, potatoes, celery, thyme, bay leaves, and Worcestershire sauce if using.
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Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
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Cover and simmer gently for 2 to 2.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender.
6. Thicken (Optional)
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If stew is too thin near the end, simmer uncovered to reduce, or stir in a slurry of 1 tablespoon flour mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water.
7. Finish and Serve
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Remove bay leaves and thyme stems if using fresh.
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Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
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Serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.
Let me know if you want a slow cooker or Instant Pot version.
