Guinness Beef Stew | Slow Cooker Irish Comfort Food
Rich, hearty, and downright soothing, Guinness Beef Stew | Slow Cooker Irish Comfort Food is the perfect antidote to a chilly evening. Picture tender chunks of beef, slow-cooked until they’re fall-apart delicious, nestled in a thick, flavorful broth that’s infused with bold notes from the iconic Guinness beer. As it simmers away in your slow cooker, your home will be filled with an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone to the dinner table. This dish truly celebrates the essence of Irish cuisine, marrying warmth and comfort in every bite.
Table of Contents
I remember the first time I made this stew; it was a rainy Sunday, and a friend recommended the recipe for a cozy dinner. The combination of tender beef, smoky bacon, and earthy veggies, all bubbling together, made each spoonful a celebration of flavor. Whether you’re gathering with family or hosting friends for a weekend bash, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, who can resist the notion of a hearty stew that practically makes itself? Let’s dig in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: With just 10 minutes of prep and a slow cooker doing the heavy lifting, this stew is as easy as pie.
- Irresistible Flavor: The deep, rich taste of Guinness blends seamlessly with the tender beef, creating a stew that’s nothing short of heavenly.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: This stew isn’t just tasty; it’s a feast for the eyes, with vibrant veggies and luscious broth.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for chilly nights, family gatherings, or whenever you need a cozy dish.
- Diet-Friendly Options: It’s naturally gluten-free — just swap the flour with your favorite gluten-free alternative.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For searing the beef, creating a rich base of flavor. You could also use canola oil if preferred.
- 2.5 lb boneless beef chuck, short rib, or other slow-cooking beef: This cut is rich in flavor and becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender. Avoid lean cuts which can dry out.
- 3/4 tsp each salt and black pepper: Essential for enhancing the meat’s natural flavors. Adjust to your taste.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Adds a fragrant depth that brightens the dish. Fresh garlic is always best.
- 2 onions, chopped: Use brown, white, or yellow onions for sweetness. They build a flavorful base.
- 6 oz diced bacon, speck, or pancetta: This introduces a smoky, savory richness. Turkey bacon is a viable alternative if you’re looking to lighten it up.
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour: This will help thicken the stew. For a gluten-free version, choose a gluten-free flour blend.
- 440ml Guinness beer (14.9 oz): The star of the show! It adds depth and character. You can substitute with beef broth if needed, but you’d miss out on the unique flavor.
- 4 tbsp tomato paste: This enhances the stew’s sweetness and acidity, balancing the richness.
- 3 cups chicken or beef broth: Choose low-sodium for better control over saltiness. Either adds a comforting base.
- 3 carrots, peeled and cut into pieces: These contribute sweetness and color. Feel free to mix in parsnips for a twist.
- 2 large celery stalks, cut into pieces: A classic stew ingredient that adds crunch and freshness.
- 2 bay leaves: Infuses a subtle, aromatic flavor during cooking. Remove before serving.
- 3 sprigs thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme leaves): This herb adds a deep, earthy note that complements the beef beautifully.
How to Make Guinness Beef Stew | Slow Cooker Irish Comfort Food
Cut the Beef: Trim any excess fat and cut the beef chuck into 2-inch chunks. Pat them dry with paper towels, then sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. This helps to create that flavorful crust when searing.
Sear the Beef: In a heavy-based pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over high heat. Add the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the meat well on all sides; this should take about 5 minutes per batch. Remove it to a plate once browned. This step builds a rich flavor base that makes the stew extraordinary.
Cook the Aromatics: Lower the heat to medium and, if the pot is getting dry, add a splash more oil. Toss in the minced garlic and chopped onions. Sauté for about 3 minutes until they begin to soften, releasing their fragrant aromas. Next, add the diced bacon, cooking until golden and crisp. The blend of onions and bacon is simply divine.
Add Vegetables and Flour: Stir in the carrot and celery, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the veggies are a bit tender. Then sprinkle in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, stirring for 1 minute. Cooking the flour briefly helps eliminate any raw taste and begins to thicken the stew.
Mix in the Liquids: Pour in 440ml of Guinness beer, scrapping any brown bits off the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon. Stir in 3 cups of chicken or beef broth and 4 tablespoons of tomato paste until well combined. The beer will add a wonderful depth of flavor! It’s key to dissolve the flour completely in this mixture.
Return Beef to the Pot: Carefully add the browned beef back into the pot along with any juices accumulated on the plate. The liquid level should just about cover the beef; you may need to adjust with more broth if necessary. Toss in the bay leaves and thyme as well for extra flavor.
Set to Simmer: Cover the pot and lower the heat to maintain a gentle bubbling. Cook for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. At this point, the beef should be starting to tenderize. Remove the lid and continue to simmer for another 30 to 45 minutes, or until the beef is fork-tender and the sauce has thickened nicely.
Final Adjustments: Once cooked, skim off any excess fat from the surface if desired. Taste the stew and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference. Discard the bay leaves and thyme before serving.
Serve: The final touch? Serve this hearty, comforting Guinness Beef Stew over creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate cozy dinner experience. Enjoy every savory and warm bite!
Storing & Reheating
To store your stew, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can sit at room temperature for about 2 hours, then must be refrigerated, where it will keep for up to 4 days. For longer storage, place it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Keep in mind the texture may slightly change, but a splash of broth or water can rejuvenate it!
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Ensuring the beef pieces are dry before browning helps develop a better sear.
- Don’t rush the browning process; good color adds depth of flavor to the final dish.
- For a thicker stew, you can mash a few pieces of beef with a potato masher once it’s cooked.
- This stew is great for make-ahead meals. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight in the fridge.
- Feel free to toss in any leftover vegetables you have on hand — this is a great way to use them up.
Just imagine sinking your spoon into a tender, flavorful bowl of Guinness Beef Stew, the comforting warmth wrapping around you. It’s a dish that invites you to slow down, savor, and enjoy the moments shared over a hearty meal. Don’t hesitate to experiment along the way; after all, cooking is about making it your own. Whether you gather your loved ones around the table or indulge in a cozy solo dinner, this stew is a sure way to bring joy. Enjoy every last bite!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use a different type of beer for this stew?
Yes, you can substitute Guinness with another stout or a dark beer for a similar rich flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, a brown ale works well, but steer clear of light lagers as they won’t provide the depth you want.
How can I make this stew gluten-free?
To make Guinness Beef Stew gluten-free, simply use gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular flour. As for the beer, there are gluten-free stouts available in stores, or you can replace the beer with additional beef broth or a mixture of beef broth with a bit of vinegar for acidity.
Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After searing the beef and sautéing the aromatics as directed, transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender. The slow cooker makes it even easier to set it and forget it!
What can I serve with Guinness Beef Stew?
This stew pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or even steamed vegetables. You might also consider a fresh green salad for a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew to round out the meal beautifully.
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📖 Recipe Card
Guinness Beef Stew | Slow Cooker Irish Comfort Food
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 190 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Irish
Description
This Guinness Beef Stew is a must-try for anyone seeking a hearty dish that combines the rich flavor of beef, bacon, and Guinness beer. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2.5 lb beef chuck, boneless short rib or any other slow cooking beef
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 tsp black pepper
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 onions, chopped
- 6 oz bacon, speck or pancetta, diced
- 3 tbsp flour
- 440ml Guinness beer
- 4 tbsp tomato paste
- 3 cups chicken stock or beef broth
- 3 carrots, peeled and cut into 1.25 cm thick pieces
- 2 large celery stalks, cut into 2cm pieces
- 2 bay leaves
- 3 sprigs thyme
Instructions
- Cut the beef into 5cm chunks and pat dry; sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Heat oil in a heavy pot over high heat, then brown the beef in batches and set aside.
- Lower the heat to medium, adding more oil if necessary, and cook garlic and onion until soft, about 3 minutes; add bacon and cook until browned.
- Introduce carrots and celery, stirring to combine.
- Sprinkle in flour and cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw taste.
- Pour in the Guinness, stock, and tomato paste, ensuring flour dissolves fully; add bay leaves and thyme.
- Return browned beef to the pot, ensuring the liquid just covers it; cover and simmer gently for 2 hours.
- After 2 hours, remove the lid and continue simmering for another 30-45 minutes until the beef is tender and sauce thickens.
- Skim off any surface fat, adjust seasoning, and remove bay leaves and thyme before serving.
Notes
Serve with creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Add root vegetables like parsnips for extra flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
