Hearty Guinness Beef Stew

Introduction:
This Hearty Guinness Beef Stew is packed with tender beef, vegetables, and a robust gravy made with Guinness beer. It’s a classic comfort food that’s perfect for cold days and pairs wonderfully with crusty bread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Rich Flavor: The Guinness beer adds a deep, malty flavor to the stew.
• Tender Meat: Slow-cooked beef becomes incredibly tender and flavorful.
• Comforting: Hearty and filling, perfect for a cozy meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 bottle (14.9 oz) Guinness beer
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional, for added color and texture)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the beef on all sides, then transfer to a plate and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables:
   • In the same pot, add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Stir in the carrots, celery, and mushrooms (if using). Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
3. Add Tomato Paste and Flour:
   • Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to caramelize slightly. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
4. Deglaze the Pot:
   • Pour in the Guinness beer, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes.
5. Add Beef and Broth:
   • Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, thyme, and rosemary. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.
6. Simmer the Stew:
   • Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally.
7. Add Peas (Optional):
   • If using, add the frozen peas during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
8. Season and Serve:
   • Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Tips for Success:

• Beef Choice: Use beef chuck for its tenderness and flavor. Avoid lean cuts that can become tough.
• Thickening the Stew: If you prefer a thicker stew, mash some of the vegetables with a spoon or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Recipe Variations:

• Vegetables: Add other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for variety.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with crusty bread or over creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Freezing and Storage:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Special Equipment:

• Dutch Oven or Large Pot: For browning the beef and simmering the stew.

FAQ:

• Can I use a different type of beer?
  Yes, you can substitute with a different dark beer or even a light beer if preferred.
• Can I make this stew ahead of time?
  Absolutely! The flavors often develop even more after a day or two in the fridge.

Preparation Time:

• 20 minutes for prepping ingredients.

Cook Time:

• 1.5 to 2 hours for simmering.

Total Time:

• 2 hours 20 minutes (including prep and cook time).

Nutrition Information (per serving, assuming 6 servings):

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 6g

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Closing Notes:
This Hearty Guinness Beef Stew is the perfect dish to warm you up on a cold day. With its rich flavors and tender beef, it’s a comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!