This slow cooker Guinness beef stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that utilizes Ireland's most famous stout. The rich taste of Guinness Extra Stout pairs perfectly with hearty beef and root vegetables, making this slow cooker stew the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in grocery stores. However, Guinness Extra Stout is a specific type of beer that comes from Ireland. It's known for its exceptionally rich and deep flavor, which adds a unique twist to the stew. If you can't find it in your local supermarket, you may want to check specialty beer or liquor stores.
Ingredients for the Slow Cooker Guinness Beef Stew
Bacon: Adds a smoky flavor to the stew.
Chuck roast: The main protein in this stew. Chuck roast is a flavorful cut of beef.
Pearl onions: These are small, sweet onions that add flavor and texture.
Yukon potatoes: These potatoes are creamy and hold up well in the stew.
Carrots: Adds sweetness and color.
Celery stalks: Adds a bit of crunch and a refreshing taste.
Beef broth: Forms the base of the stew.
Garlic: Adds a punch of flavor.
Guinness extra stout: Adds a rich, malty flavor to the stew.
Tomato paste: Adds a rich, umami flavor.
Fresh thyme: Adds a subtle, earthy flavor.
White sugar: Balances out the more savory flavors.
Butter: Adds richness and helps thicken the stew.
Flour: Helps thicken the stew.
One reader, Atlanta Christ says:
This slow cooker Guinness beef stew recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and hearty, and the meat is incredibly tender. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water. It's the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in. Highly recommend trying it out!
Key Techniques for Slow Cooker Guinness Beef Stew
How to brown the beef: Heat a skillet on high heat and brown the seasoned beef on each side for 4-6 minutes until deeply browned.
How to cook the bacon: Cook the bacon until crisp, then remove it from the skillet.
How to thicken the stew: In a small bowl, mix the butter and flour, then add it to the slow cooker and cook for an additional hour or until thickened.
How To Make Slow Cooker Guinness Beef Stew
Chuck roast and vegetables are slow cooked in a rich beer mix to yield this perfectly delicious and juicy slow cooker Guinness beef stew!
Serves:
Ingredients
Instructions
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- Preheat an aluminum slow cooker insert or cast iron skillet on high heat. Cook the bacon until crisp, then remove.
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- Season the beef with half the salt and the pepper. Add to the skillet and brown on each side for 4 to 6 minutes or until deeply browned on each side.
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- Into the slow cooker, add the pearl onions, potatoes, carrots, celery, half the bacon, broth, garlic, beer, second half of the salt, tomato paste, thyme, and sugar.
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- Cut the beef into 2-inch chunks and add it to the slow cooker.
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- Stir until well mixed and cook on Low for 7 hours.
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- In a small bowl, mix the butter and flour and add it to the slow cooker and stir.
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- Cook for an additional 1 hour or until thickened.
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- Add in the remaining bacon, stir, then serve. Enjoy!
Nutrition
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- Calories: 560.55kcal
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- Fat: 23.67g
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- Saturated Fat: 9.34g
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- Trans Fat: 0.57g
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- Monounsaturated Fat: 10.27g
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- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.08g
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- Carbohydrates: 39.14g
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- Fiber: 5.55g
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- Sugar: 7.27g
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- Protein: 46.51g
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- Cholesterol: 135.21mg
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- Sodium: 898.04mg
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- Calcium: 89.16mg
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- Potassium: 1849.36mg
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- Iron: 6.81mg
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- Vitamin A: 362.93µg
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- Vitamin C: 36.61mg
Pro Tip for Enhancing Flavor in Slow Cooker Stews
When browning the beef, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. This could cause the beef to steam rather than sear, preventing that deep, flavorful crust from forming. If necessary, brown the beef in batches to ensure each piece has enough space. Also, resist the urge to move the beef around too much. Letting it sit undisturbed will allow it to develop a richer color and flavor.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Beef Stew
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Use pre-cut vegetables: Consider using pre-cut vegetables to save time on prep work.
Slow cooker liners: Use slow cooker liners for easy cleanup and to save time on washing the pot.
Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Guinness Beef Stew Recipe
bacon - Substitute with pancetta: Pancetta is a cured Italian meat that is similar to bacon but has a slightly different flavor profile, adding a unique twist to the stew.
chuck roast - Substitute with brisket: Brisket is a flavorful cut of beef that can be used as a substitute for chuck roast, and it becomes tender and delicious when slow-cooked.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, providing a similar level of saltiness to the dish.
coarse ground black pepper - Substitute with crushed red pepper flakes: Red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat and a different dimension of flavor to the stew.
pearl onions - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for pearl onions, providing a milder onion flavor to the stew.
yukon potatoes - Substitute with red potatoes: Red potatoes can be used as a substitute for Yukon potatoes, providing a similar texture and flavor when cooked in the stew.
carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips can be used as a substitute for carrots, adding a slightly sweeter and nuttier flavor to the stew.
celery stalks - Substitute with fennel bulb: Fennel bulb can be used as a substitute for celery, providing a similar crunch and a hint of licorice flavor to the stew.
beef broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for beef broth, providing a lighter and slightly different flavor to the stew.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for garlic, providing a milder and slightly sweeter flavor to the stew.
Guinness Extra Stout - Substitute with stout beer: Any stout beer can be used as a substitute for Guinness Extra Stout, providing a rich and robust flavor to the stew.
tomato paste - Substitute with sundried tomato paste: Sundried tomato paste can be used as a substitute for tomato paste, adding a deeper and more intense tomato flavor to the stew.
fresh thyme - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme can be used as a substitute for fresh thyme, providing a similar earthy and aromatic flavor to the stew.
white sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a substitute for white sugar, adding a hint of sweetness and a unique flavor to the stew.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a substitute for butter, providing a healthier fat option and a slightly different flavor to the stew.
flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can be used as a substitute for flour to thicken the stew, providing a gluten-free alternative.
Presentation Tips for Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Elevate the plating: When presenting the slow cooker Guinness beef stew, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use a wide, shallow bowl or a deep plate to showcase the stew, allowing the rich colors and textures to stand out.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of freshness and color to the dish by garnishing with a few sprigs of fresh thyme or parsley. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a hint of aroma to the overall dining experience.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a contrasting element to the presentation, such as a side of crispy baguette slices or puff pastry. This adds a delightful textural component to the dish and elevates the overall dining experience.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each element in the dish, ensuring that the pearl onions, potatoes, and carrots are thoughtfully arranged to create a visually striking presentation.
Emphasize the beef: Highlight the succulent chunks of beef by placing them strategically within the stew, allowing them to be a focal point of the presentation. This showcases the star ingredient and adds a sense of indulgence to the dish.
Essential Equipment for Making Guinness Beef Stew
Aluminum slow cooker insert: This is a type of slow cooker insert made of aluminum, which is commonly used for slow cooking dishes.
Cast iron skillet: A cast iron skillet is a heavy-duty pan that is perfect for searing and browning meat before adding it to the slow cooker.
Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen tool that can be used for chopping, slicing, and shredding ingredients for the stew.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the ingredients for the stew before transferring them to the slow cooker.
Small bowl: A small bowl is used for mixing the butter and flour before adding it to the stew to thicken the sauce.
Skillet: A skillet is used for cooking the bacon until crisp and browning the chuck roast before adding it to the slow cooker.
Slow cooker: The slow cooker is the main cooking vessel for this recipe, where all the ingredients are combined and cooked low and slow to develop rich flavors.
Storing and Freezing Guinness Beef Stew
Let the beef stew cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and potentially spoiling the stew.
Transfer the cooled stew to an airtight container or freezer-safe zip-top bags. If using bags, remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents, so you can easily keep track of when it was made and what's inside.
Store the beef stew in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This allows you to enjoy leftovers throughout the week without compromising the quality or safety of the dish.
If freezing, place the container or bag in the freezer for up to 3 months. Freezing is an excellent option if you want to enjoy the stew at a later date or have made a large batch.
To reheat, thaw the frozen stew overnight in the refrigerator. This slow thawing process helps maintain the texture and flavor of the beef and vegetables.
Transfer the thawed stew to a pot and reheat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds to ensure even heating.
If the reheated stew appears too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to thin it out and achieve the perfect consistency.
Enjoy your reheated Guinness beef stew, which will taste just as delicious as the day you made it, thanks to proper storage and reheating techniques.
How To Reheat Leftover Beef Stew
The best way to reheat leftover slow cooker guinness beef stew is to use a saucepan on the stovetop. Transfer the desired amount of stew into the pan and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure that the beef, vegetables, and potatoes are evenly heated without overcooking or drying out.
Another option is to use the microwave. Place the desired amount of stew in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel or a microwave-safe lid. Heat the stew in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval, until it's heated through. Be careful not to overheat the stew, as this can cause the beef to become tough and the vegetables to turn mushy.
If you have a lot of leftover stew and want to reheat it all at once, you can use your slow cooker. Transfer the stew back into the slow cooker and heat it on the low setting for 1-2 hours, or until it's heated through. This method is convenient if you're planning to serve the stew later in the day or if you want to keep it warm for an extended period.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to stir the stew well to ensure that the heat is evenly distributed. If the stew seems too thick after reheating, you can add a splash of beef broth or water to thin it out. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if needed before serving.
Interesting Trivia About Guinness Beef Stew
The Guinness beef stew recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the rich flavors of beef, bacon, and vegetables with the deep, malty taste of Guinness beer. This stew is perfect for a cozy night in or for serving a crowd, and it's a great way to enjoy a classic Irish dish.
Is Making Slow Cooker Beef Stew Cost-Effective?
This slow cooker Guinness beef stew recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients such as chuck roast, potatoes, carrots, and onions makes it a budget-friendly option. The hearty nature of the stew also means it can feed a family of four at an approximate cost of $20. The rich flavors and tender beef make it a comforting and satisfying meal. I would rate this recipe a solid 9 for its affordability and delicious outcome.
Is Guinness Beef Stew Healthy?
The slow cooker Guinness beef stew recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to several factors:
- The recipe includes a significant amount of red meat (chuck roast), which is high in saturated fat and cholesterol. Consuming excessive amounts of red meat has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and certain cancers.
- The use of bacon adds additional saturated fat and sodium to the dish.
- The recipe calls for a considerable amount of potatoes, which are high in carbohydrates and can contribute to a higher calorie count.
- Guinness extra stout, while adding depth of flavor, also contributes to the overall calorie and alcohol content of the stew.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the amount of red meat and replace some of it with lean protein sources like chicken, turkey, or legumes such as lentils or chickpeas. This will help decrease the saturated fat and cholesterol content while still providing essential nutrients.
- Omit the bacon or use a smaller amount of a leaner alternative, such as turkey bacon, to reduce the saturated fat and sodium content.
- Increase the proportion of vegetables in the stew, such as adding more carrots, celery, and introducing other nutrient-dense options like parsnips, turnips, or kale. This will boost the fiber, vitamin, and mineral content of the dish.
- Replace some of the potatoes with lower-carb alternatives like cauliflower, parsnips, or turnips to reduce the overall carbohydrate and calorie count.
- Use a reduced-sodium beef broth to help control the sodium content of the stew.
- Experiment with using a smaller amount of Guinness or replacing it with a non-alcoholic stout or rich beef stock to maintain the flavor profile while reducing the alcohol and calorie content.
Editor's Take on This Guinness Beef Stew Recipe
The slow cooker Guinness beef stew recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the richness of Guinness stout with tender beef and an array of vegetables. The use of bacon adds a smoky depth, while the slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The addition of thyme and garlic adds aromatic complexity, and the final thickening with butter and flour creates a luscious texture. This recipe is a perfect comfort food for a cozy night in, and the depth of flavors will surely impress anyone who tries it.
Enhance Your Slow Cooker Guinness Beef Stew Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Slow Cooker Guinness Beef Stew Recipe:
This slow cooker Guinness beef stew recipe is a trusted classic, carefully crafted for rich, hearty flavors. The combination of tender chuck roast, smoky bacon, and robust Guinness Extra Stout creates a depth of flavor that's unparalleled. With fresh thyme, pearl onions, and Yukon potatoes, this recipe promises a comforting, soul-warming experience. The addition of carrots and celery adds a delightful crunch, while the slow cooking process ensures that the flavors meld together perfectly. Trust in this recipe for a satisfying, homemade meal that will surely become a family favorite.
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