Hearty Beef and Guinness Stew
This rich and flavorful Beef and Guinness Stew is a comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings. Tender chunks of stewing beef are simmered with aromatic vegetables, earthy mushrooms, and the distinctive flavor of Guinness stout, creating a sumptuous dish that warms the soul. This version of the stew is free from dumplings and focuses on the deep, hearty flavors, making it both satisfying and nourishing. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal. Ideal for family gatherings or meal prep, you’ll love the depth of flavor this stew offers.
N/A
Servings
300
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Stewing beef
2 lbs (diced)
Onion
1 (chopped)
Garlic cloves
4 (minced)
Celery
3 stalks (chopped)
Button mushrooms
4 ounces (chopped)
Bay leaves
4
Thyme
1 teaspoon
Tomato paste
1 tablespoon
Guinness stout
1 (15 ounce) can
Beef broth
3 1/2 cups
Flour
1 1/2 tablespoons
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a large Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Toss the diced beef with 1.5 tablespoons of flour, ensuring each piece is coated evenly.
3
In batches, add the beef to the pot and brown it on all sides. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside on a plate.
4
If necessary, add a bit more olive oil to the pot. Then, add the chopped celery, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
5
Sprinkle in the thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the chopped mushrooms and bay leaves, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6
Pour in the beef broth, Guinness stout, and stir in the tomato paste, ensuring everything is well incorporated.
7
Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
8
Allow the stew to cook undisturbed in the oven for 2 hours, letting the flavors meld together and the beef to become tender.
Nutrition Information
13g
Fat
20g
Carbs
27g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hearty Beef and Guinness Stew?
It is a rich, flavorful Irish-style stew made with stewing beef, vegetables, mushrooms, and Guinness stout, slow-cooked in the oven.
What cut of beef should I use for this recipe?
Stewing beef is recommended. This usually refers to beef chuck or shoulder which becomes very tender during long cooking times.
How long does the stew need to cook in the oven?
The stew should cook undisturbed in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 2 hours.
Can I substitute the Guinness stout?
While Guinness provides a unique flavor, you can substitute it with another dry stout or porter, or use extra beef broth if you prefer to avoid alcohol.
Do I need to brown the beef before putting it in the oven?
Yes, browning the beef in batches is essential as it adds a deep, savory flavor to the final stew.
Why is the beef tossed in flour first?
The flour helps the beef brown better and acts as a thickening agent for the stew's sauce as it simmers.
What vegetables are included in this stew?
The recipe includes chopped celery, onion, garlic, and button mushrooms.
Can I add potatoes to this beef stew?
Yes, you can add diced potatoes to the pot along with the broth and Guinness if you want a more traditional one-pot meal.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, it contains all-purpose flour and Guinness (which contains barley). To make it gluten-free, use a GF flour blend and GF stout.
What should I serve with Hearty Beef and Guinness Stew?
It is best served with crusty bread for dipping, though it also goes well with mashed potatoes or colcannon.
How many calories are in a serving?
This stew contains approximately 300 calories per serving.
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, follow the browning and sautéing steps on the stove, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
What kind of mushrooms are best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for button mushrooms, but cremini or baby bella mushrooms also work well and add a deeper flavor.
Do I have to use a Dutch oven?
A Dutch oven is ideal because it distributes heat evenly, but any heavy, oven-safe pot with a tight-fitting lid will work.
How many bay leaves are needed?
The recipe uses 4 bay leaves to infuse the stew with herbal depth.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this stew freezes excellently. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Is there a lot of alcohol in the finished dish?
Most of the alcohol from the Guinness evaporates during the 2-hour cooking process, leaving behind only the rich flavor.
Can I add carrots to this stew?
Absolutely, chopped carrots are a classic addition and can be sautéed with the onions and celery.
How do I store this in the refrigerator?
Keep it in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. The flavor often improves after the first day.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 27g of protein.
Can I use fresh thyme instead of dried?
Yes, use 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves to replace the 1 teaspoon of dried thyme called for in the recipe.
Why is tomato paste used in the stew?
Tomato paste adds acidity, a touch of sweetness, and a concentrated savory (umami) depth to the sauce.
How much Guinness is required?
One 15-ounce can of Guinness stout is used for this recipe.
Is this stew thick or thin?
It is a hearty, thickened stew thanks to the flour coating on the beef and the long reduction time in the oven.
Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?
You can, but beef broth is preferred as it complements the meat and stout much better for a deep, dark sauce.
What type of onion should I use?
A standard yellow or white onion is best for sautéing and building the flavor base.
What is the fat content of this recipe?
The recipe contains approximately 13g of fat per serving.
Do I need to peel the mushrooms?
No, just wipe them clean with a damp paper towel and chop them; peeling is not necessary.
Can I make this on the stovetop instead of the oven?
Yes, you can simmer it on the stove over low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours, making sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Does this recipe contain sugar?
The recipe does not list added sugar, though there are naturally occurring sugars in the vegetables and beer.