Imagine a pot of rich, savory Guinness Beef Stew simmering away, filling your kitchen with warm, comforting aromas. This classic dish is a celebration of hearty ingredients, slow cooking, and bold flavors. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly day or create a memorable meal for family and friends, this Guinness Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food.

Why You’ll Love Guinness Beef Stew

Guinness Beef Stew isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef, earthy vegetables, and the robust flavor of Guinness stout creates a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its deep flavors and rustic appeal, this stew is a crowd-pleaser that’s worth every step of preparation.

Ingredients for Guinness Beef Stew

Here’s what you’ll need to create this savory masterpiece:

• 4 strips bacon, diced
• 3.5 lbs beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
• 1 yellow onion, large diced
• 3 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery ribs, chopped
• ¼ head cabbage, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups Guinness stout (classic version)
• 2 ½ cups beef broth
• 1 cup strong brewed coffee
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 sprigs thyme
• 1 lb baby gold potatoes, halved
• 2 cups frozen peas (optional)
• Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (1/6 recipe)
Calories	480
Protein	38g
Carbohydrates	35g
Total Fat	22g
Fiber	6g

How to Make Guinness Beef Stew

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). A Dutch oven works best for this recipe due to its even heat distribution and oven-safe design.

Step 2: Render the Bacon

In your Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium-low heat until browned and crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Season the beef chuck cubes generously with salt and pepper. Sear the beef in the bacon fat over medium-high heat, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Sear each side until browned, then set the beef aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

Reduce the heat to medium. If needed, add a small pat of butter to the pot. Sauté the onions, carrots, celery, and cabbage for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Build the Base

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes until it deepens in color. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stirring well to coat and thicken the mixture.

Step 6: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in the Guinness stout and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. These bits add incredible flavor to the stew.

Step 7: Add Liquids and Seasoning

Add the beef broth, brewed coffee, bay leaves, thyme, seared beef, and cooked bacon back into the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 8: Add the Potatoes

Stir in the halved baby gold potatoes, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the stew.

Step 9: Braise in the Oven

Cover the Dutch oven and transfer it to the preheated oven. Let the stew braise for 3 to 3.5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors are fully developed.

Step 10: Add the Peas

If you’re using frozen peas, stir them into the stew during the last 15 minutes of cooking. They’ll add a pop of color and a touch of sweetness.

Step 11: Let It Rest

Remove the pot from the oven and let the stew rest, covered, for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 12: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Guinness Beef Stew with a slice of crusty bread or over creamy mashed potatoes. Enjoy the rich, hearty flavors in every bite!

Why This Recipe Works

1. Guinness Stout Adds Depth: The rich, malty flavor of Guinness enhances the savory elements of the stew while balancing the sweetness of the vegetables.
2. Coffee for Complexity: A cup of strong brewed coffee adds a subtle depth and rounds out the flavors.
3. Slow Cooking Brings Tenderness: Braising the beef low and slow ensures it’s fall-apart tender and packed with flavor.
4. Customizable Vegetables: The mix of carrots, celery, cabbage, and potatoes provides texture and nutrition while allowing room for customization.

Serving Suggestions

• With Bread: Pair your stew with crusty sourdough or Irish soda bread for dipping.
• Over Starch: Serve it over mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or rice for an even heartier meal.
• With a Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the stew.

FAQs About Guinness Beef Stew

1. Can I make Guinness Beef Stew in a slow cooker?
Yes! Follow the same steps for searing the beef and sautéing the vegetables, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.

2. Can I use a different type of beer?
While Guinness provides a signature flavor, you can substitute it with another stout or dark ale.

3. What if I don’t have a Dutch oven?
You can use a heavy-bottomed pot for stovetop cooking, then transfer the stew to a baking dish and cover with foil before placing it in the oven.

4. Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Absolutely! This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the oven.

5. How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

6. Can I omit the coffee?
Yes, but the coffee adds a unique depth of flavor. If you prefer, replace it with an equal amount of beef broth.

Tips for Perfect Guinness Beef Stew

1. Use Quality Beef: Opt for well-marbled beef chuck for the most tender and flavorful results.
2. Don’t Skip the Sear: Browning the beef creates a flavorful crust that adds depth to the stew.
3. Be Patient: Allow the stew to braise slowly for the most tender meat and rich flavors.
4. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving to ensure the flavors are balanced.

Why Guinness Beef Stew is a Must-Try Recipe

Guinness Beef Stew isn’t just a meal—it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl. Its rich, robust flavors and tender textures make it a go-to recipe for cold days, celebrations, or simply when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying. With its simple preparation and unforgettable taste, this stew will quickly become a favorite in your home.

So, grab your Dutch oven, open a bottle of Guinness, and let’s get cooking—you’ll thank yourself when the first spoonful warms your soul.

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