Name: Guinness Beef Stew Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 lbs beef chuck roast; kosher salt; freshly-cracked black pepper; 1 white onion; 4 garlic cloves; ⅓ cup flour; 12 oz Guinness beer; 4 cups beef stock; 3 carrots; 1.5 lbs yukon gold potatoes; 3 tbsp tomato paste; 1 bay leaf; ½ tsp dried thyme; Fresh Parsley

A hearty and rich Guinness beef stew that's perfect for a cozy dinner, offering tender chunks of beef and vegetables simmered in Guinness beer and beef stock.

Photos of Guinness Beef Stew Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe may not be commonly found in every kitchen. Specifically, Guinness beer and beef chuck roast might require a special trip to the supermarket. Be sure to check your local store's beer aisle and meat section to find these items.

Ingredients For Guinness Beef Stew

Olive oil: Used for searing the beef and sautéing the vegetables, adding richness to the stew.

Beef chuck roast: Provides tender and flavorful chunks of beef after slow cooking.

Kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the stew.

Black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth to the dish.

White onion: Brings a sweet and savory flavor base to the stew.

Garlic cloves: Infuses the stew with aromatic depth.

Flour: Helps thicken the stew for a hearty consistency.

Guinness beer: Adds a rich, malty flavor that complements the beef.

Beef stock: Creates a savory broth that ties all the flavors together.

Carrots: Adds sweetness and color to the stew.

Yukon gold potatoes: Provides a creamy texture and absorbs the flavors of the stew.

Tomato paste: Adds a concentrated tomato flavor and thickness.

Bay leaf: Infuses the stew with a subtle herbal aroma.

Dried thyme: Adds earthy and floral notes to the dish.

Fresh parsley: Used as a garnish for a fresh, bright finish.

One reader, Katuscha Whitman says:

This Guinness beef stew recipe is fantastic! The beef is incredibly tender, and the rich, savory flavors meld perfectly. The Guinness adds a unique depth, making it a comforting and hearty dish. Perfect for a cozy night in!

Katuscha Whitman

Cooking Techniques for Guinness Beef Stew

How to sear beef: Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat, add beef, and cook until browned on all sides. How to sauté onions and garlic: Cook onions in oil until translucent, then add garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. How to stir in flour: Mix flour with sautéed onions until evenly coated and cook briefly. How to deglaze a pan: Add liquid (Guinness beer) to the pan and scrape the bottom to release browned bits. How to simmer stew: Bring the stew to a simmer, then cover and cook on low heat until ingredients are tender.

How To Make Guinness Beef Stew

Try a hearty beef stew for dinner with the family tonight! This stew is made with everyone’s favorite Guinness beer to level up the flavors.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 2 hours

Total: 2 hours 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2tbspolive oildivided
3lbsbeef chuck roasttrimmed of excess fat and cut into bite-sized pieces
Kosher salt
freshly-cracked black pepper
1white onionor yellow, large, peeled and diced
4garlic clovespeeled and minced
⅓cupflour
12ozGuinness beer
4cupsbeef stock
3carrotslarge, peeled and diagonally sliced into bite-sized pieces
1.5lbsYukon gold potatoescut into bite-sized pieces
3tbsptomato paste
1bay leaf
½tspdried thyme
fresh parsleychopped, optional garnish

Instructions

Season beef with a few generous pinches of salt and pepper.
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat.
Add half of the beef to the pan. Cook until seared, turning the beef every 30 to 45 seconds or so until all sides are browned.
Remove beef from pan with a slotted spoon, and transfer to a clean plate.
Add an additional 1 tablespoon oil to the stockpot, and repeat this process with the remaining half of the beef, transferring it afterward to the plate as well.
Add the onion to the stockpot and saute for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add garlic and saute for 1 minute, stirring occasionally.
Stir in the flour until it has evenly coated the onions, and cook for 1 minute, stirring occasionally.
Gradually stir in the Guinness, and use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pan to loosen any brown bits.
Stir in the beef stock, carrots, potatoes, tomato paste, bay leaf, thyme, and the cooked beef and its juices.
Continue cooking until the stew reaches a simmer. Then cover and reduce heat to medium-low.
Simmer over low for 1 ½ hour, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the potatoes are soft.
Remove bay leaf and season with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
Serve warm garnished with chopped parsley, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 842.82kcal
Fat: 14.14g
Saturated Fat: 4.42g
Trans Fat: 0.42g
Monounsaturated Fat: 7.17g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.99g
Carbohydrates: 120.80g
Fiber: 7.47g
Sugar: 4.22g
Protein: 54.40g
Cholesterol: 108.86mg
Sodium: 1397.22mg
Calcium: 112.90mg
Potassium: 1638.92mg
Iron: 9.12mg
Vitamin A: 228.25µg
Vitamin C: 29.47mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Guinness Beef Stew

For a richer flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of beef stock before adding the Guinness beer. This helps to lift all the caramelized bits from the bottom of the pan, infusing your stew with deeper, more complex flavors.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Guinness Beef Stew

Pre-cut vegetables: Chop the carrots, potatoes, and onion in advance and store them in the fridge.

Batch searing: Sear all the beef at once in a larger pan to save time.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the flour, tomato paste, and spices before starting.

Use a food processor: Mince the garlic and onion quickly with a food processor.

Simmer in a slow cooker: Transfer everything to a slow cooker after searing the beef and sautéing the vegetables. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Substitute Ingredients For Guinness Beef Stew Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a similar smoke point and neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for sautéing.
beef chuck roast - Substitute with pork shoulder: Pork shoulder has a similar marbling and tenderness when slow-cooked, providing a comparable texture and flavor.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar level of seasoning.
freshly-cracked black pepper - Substitute with ground white pepper: Ground white pepper offers a milder flavor but can still provide the necessary seasoning.
white onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions have a similar sweetness and texture when cooked, making them a suitable replacement.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove to maintain the garlic flavor in the stew.
flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can be used as a thickening agent; use half the amount of cornstarch as you would flour.
guinness beer - Substitute with beef broth: Beef broth can provide a rich, savory flavor without the alcohol content, though it will lack the unique stout flavor.
beef stock - Substitute with chicken stock: Chicken stock can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar depth of flavor.
carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a similar texture and sweetness when cooked, making them a good alternative.
yukon gold potatoes - Substitute with red potatoes: Red potatoes hold their shape well during cooking and have a similar creamy texture.
tomato paste - Substitute with tomato sauce: Use double the amount of tomato sauce to achieve a similar consistency and flavor.
bay leaf - Substitute with thyme: Thyme can provide a similar earthy flavor, though it will be slightly different in profile.
dried thyme - Substitute with dried oregano: Dried oregano has a similar herbaceous quality and can be used in the same quantity.
fresh parsley - Substitute with fresh cilantro: Fresh cilantro can provide a bright, fresh flavor, though it will be slightly different in taste.

Presentation Ideas for Guinness Beef Stew

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the Guinness beef stew in a shallow, wide-rimmed bowl to allow for a more refined presentation. Use a ring mold to neatly arrange the beef and vegetables in the center.
Use decoration: Garnish with a sprig of fresh parsley and a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil around the edge of the bowl for a touch of elegance.
Highlight textures: Ensure the beef is tender and the potatoes and carrots are cooked to perfection, providing a contrast in textures that will delight the palate.
Add color contrast: Use finely chopped chives or a small amount of microgreens to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Serve with a side: Accompany the stew with a small piece of artisan bread, lightly toasted and brushed with garlic butter, to complement the rich flavors of the stew.
Use high-quality ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, from the beef chuck roast to the Guinness beer, are of the highest quality to enhance the overall taste and presentation.
Create a balanced plate: Arrange the beef, vegetables, and broth in a way that each element is visible and balanced, showcasing the care taken in preparation.
Finish with a flourish: Just before serving, add a light sprinkle of sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to enhance the flavors and add a final touch of sophistication.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Beef Stew with Guinness

Large stockpot: Essential for browning the beef and simmering the stew. It should be large enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably.
Slotted spoon: Useful for removing the browned beef from the stockpot while leaving the oil and juices behind.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the ingredients and scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Sharp knife: Necessary for chopping the beef, onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping all the vegetables and meat.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the olive oil, flour, tomato paste, thyme, and any additional seasoning.
Measuring cup: Useful for measuring the Guinness beer and beef stock accurately.
Plate: Needed to temporarily hold the browned beef before it is added back into the stew.
Ladle: Handy for serving the stew once it is ready.
Peeler: Useful for peeling the carrots and potatoes, if desired.
Tongs: Can be used to turn the beef while browning to ensure all sides are evenly seared.
Timer: Helps keep track of the cooking times, especially during the simmering process.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Guinness Beef Stew

Allow the Guinness beef stew to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled stew to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 4 days in the fridge.
When ready to reheat, transfer the desired portion to a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of beef broth or water to thin the stew if it has thickened during storage.
For freezing, transfer the cooled stew to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the containers with the date and contents.
Frozen Guinness beef stew will keep well for up to 3 months.
To reheat from frozen, you can either:
- Thaw the stew overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat until warmed through.
- Place the frozen stew directly into a saucepan and reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until thawed and heated through. This method may take longer and require more frequent stirring to prevent scorching.
If the stew appears too thick after thawing or reheating, add a little beef broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper before serving, as flavors may mellow during storage.

How To Reheat Leftover Guinness Beef Stew

Stovetop method: transfer the leftover guinness beef stew to a pot and reheat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure that the beef and vegetables are evenly heated without overcooking or drying out.
Microwave method: place the desired portion of leftover stew in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel or a microwave-safe lid. Microwave on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the stew is heated through. Be careful not to overheat the stew, as it may cause the beef to become tough and the vegetables to turn mushy.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover stew to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and reheat for 15-20 minutes, or until the stew is heated through. This method is ideal if you have a large quantity of leftover stew and want to reheat it all at once.
Slow cooker method: transfer the leftover guinness beef stew to a slow cooker and reheat it on the low setting for 1-2 hours, or until it reaches the desired temperature. This method is perfect for those who want to reheat the stew without much hands-on attention, as the slow cooker will gently reheat the stew while keeping the beef tender and the vegetables intact.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to stir the stew occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent scorching. If the stew appears too thick after reheating, you can add a small amount of beef broth or water to thin it out and restore its original consistency.

Interesting Trivia About Guinness Beef Stew

A random fact about this Guinness beef stew recipe is that the Guinness beer not only adds a rich, deep flavor to the stew, but its natural sugars also help to tenderize the beef during the cooking process.

Is Making Guinness Beef Stew at Home Cost-Effective?

When evaluating the cost-effectiveness of this Guinness beef stew, it's essential to consider the price of beef chuck roast, Guinness beer, and fresh vegetables. The beef is the most expensive component, but the use of potatoes and carrots helps balance the cost. The overall verdict for this recipe is a solid 7 out of 10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $30-$35 USD, making it a moderately priced yet hearty and flavorful meal.

Is Guinness Beef Stew Healthy or Unhealthy?

The Guinness beef stew recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:

The recipe calls for a significant amount of beef chuck roast, which is a fatty cut of meat. While it adds flavor and tenderness to the stew, it also increases the overall fat content.
The use of olive oil for searing the beef and sautéing the onions adds additional fat to the dish.
The recipe includes potatoes and carrots, which are nutritious vegetables, but the portion sizes may be quite large, contributing to a higher calorie count.
Guinness beer is used as a key ingredient, and while it adds depth of flavor, it also contains alcohol and additional calories.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for a leaner cut of beef, such as sirloin or round roast, to reduce the overall fat content
Use a smaller amount of olive oil or replace it with a healthier alternative, such as avocado oil or coconut oil
Increase the proportion of vegetables in the stew, such as adding more carrots, celery, or even leafy greens like kale or spinach
Reduce the amount of potatoes or replace some of them with lower-carb alternatives, such as turnips or parsnips
Use a low-sodium beef stock to control the salt content
Consider using a non-alcoholic beer or reducing the amount of Guinness used in the recipe to lower the calorie and alcohol content
Serve the stew with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the meal and add more nutrients

Editor's Opinion on This Guinness Beef Stew Recipe

This Guinness beef stew recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for cold weather. The use of Guinness beer adds a rich, deep flavor that complements the tender beef and vegetables beautifully. The step-by-step instructions are clear and easy to follow, ensuring a well-balanced and delicious stew. The addition of fresh parsley at the end provides a nice, fresh contrast to the robust flavors. Overall, this recipe is a fantastic choice for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Enhance Your Guinness Beef Stew Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the earthy flavors of roasted Brussels sprouts, perfectly caramelized and drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. The slight bitterness of the sprouts pairs beautifully with the rich, hearty Guinness Beef Stew, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.

Irish Soda Bread: Complement your Guinness Beef Stew with a warm, crusty loaf of Irish soda bread. The bread's slightly sweet and dense texture is perfect for soaking up the savory, beefy broth. Each bite offers a delightful contrast to the stew's tender meat and vegetables.

Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: For a lighter, yet equally satisfying side, try garlic mashed cauliflower. This creamy, garlicky dish provides a smooth and velvety counterpoint to the robust Guinness Beef Stew. The subtle flavors of the cauliflower meld seamlessly with the rich stew, making each spoonful a comforting delight.

Apple and Fennel Salad: Add a refreshing, crisp element to your meal with an apple and fennel salad. The sweetness of the apples and the anise-like flavor of the fennel create a vibrant contrast to the deep, savory notes of the Guinness Beef Stew. A light citrus vinaigrette ties it all together, making each bite a burst of freshness.

Cheddar and Chive Biscuits: Imagine warm, flaky cheddar and chive biscuits fresh out of the oven. The sharp cheddar and aromatic chives add a delightful twist to these buttery biscuits, making them the perfect accompaniment to your Guinness Beef Stew. Each bite is a comforting blend of flavors that enhances the hearty stew experience.

Similar Recipes to Guinness Beef Stew

Irish Lamb Stew: Dive into the rich and hearty flavors of Irish Lamb Stew. This classic dish combines tender lamb, potatoes, carrots, and a medley of herbs simmered to perfection in a savory broth. Perfect for a cozy night in.

Beef and Guinness Pie: Experience the ultimate comfort food with Beef and Guinness Pie. This savory pie features succulent beef chunks, mushrooms, and a rich Guinness gravy, all encased in a flaky, golden crust. A true pub classic!

Shepherd's Pie: Savor the traditional taste of Shepherd's Pie. Ground lamb or beef is cooked with peas, carrots, and onions, then topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked to a golden brown. A family favorite!

Beef Bourguignon: Indulge in the French classic Beef Bourguignon. This luxurious stew features tender beef braised in red wine with mushrooms, pearl onions, and bacon. A dish that’s sure to impress!

Chicken and Dumplings: Warm up with a bowl of Chicken and Dumplings. This comforting dish includes tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich, creamy broth filled with vegetables. Perfect for a chilly evening.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Guinness Beef Stew

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start your meal. Imagine portobello mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushrooms are baked until the filling is golden and bubbly, creating a perfect bite-sized treat. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs beautifully with the creamy filling, making it a crowd-pleaser. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an added touch of color and freshness.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic appetizer that never fails to impress. Start with slices of toasted baguette brushed with olive oil. Top them with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The combination of the crispy bread and the fresh, tangy topping is simply irresistible. This appetizer is not only delicious but also adds a burst of color to your table, making it a perfect choice for any gathering.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich, gooey delight of a Chocolate Lava Cake. This decadent treat features a warm, molten center that flows out when you cut into it, creating a perfect harmony of textures. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the intense chocolate flavor. A sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries add a touch of elegance and a burst of freshness to this luxurious dessert.

Apple Crumble: Savor the comforting flavors of an Apple Crumble, a classic dessert that combines tender, spiced apples with a buttery, crunchy topping. The contrast between the soft fruit and the crisp topping creates a delightful mouthfeel. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra layer of indulgence. A hint of cinnamon and nutmeg in the filling elevates the aroma and taste, making this dessert a perfect end to any meal.

Why trust this Guinness Beef Stew Recipe:

This Guinness beef stew recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking a hearty and flavorful meal. The beef chuck roast is perfectly seared to lock in its juices, while the Guinness beer adds a rich, deep flavor that elevates the dish. With carrots, potatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices, this stew is both comforting and satisfying. The slow simmer ensures the beef becomes tender and the flavors meld beautifully. Trust this recipe for a delicious, soul-warming experience.

Share your thoughts on this hearty Guinness Beef Stew recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make it even better!

FAQ:

How do I make sure the beef is tender?

The key to tender beef is to simmer it low and slow. Make sure to keep the heat on medium-low and let it cook for the full 1 ½ hours. This allows the beef to break down and become super tender.

Can I use a different type of beer?

Absolutely! While Guinness gives a rich, deep flavor, you can use any stout or even a different type of beer if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly.

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! After searing the beef and sautéing the onions and garlic, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the beef is tender and the potatoes are soft.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Definitely. Let the stew cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove when you're ready to enjoy it again.

What can I serve with this stew?

This stew is pretty hearty on its own, but it's great with some crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth. You could also serve it with a simple side salad or some steamed green veggies for a bit of freshness.