Irish Beef Stew is a cozy dish filled with tender beef, hearty potatoes, and vibrant carrots. It’s slow-cooked to create rich flavors that will warm you from the inside out!
There’s something about a warm bowl of stew that feels like a big hug. I love making it on chilly days—just toss everything in the pot and let it do its thing. So easy and oh so comforting!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is perfect for stews because it becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked. If you can’t find chuck, brisket or round steak can be good alternatives. Just make sure they’re well-marbled for the best texture.
Beer: Guinness adds a deep flavor and richness to the stew. If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute with additional beef broth mixed with a splash of vinegar for acidity, or simply stick with broth alone.
Carrots and Potatoes: Both are classic ingredients. Go for Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes and use any kind of carrots you like. For a twist, you can swap in parsnips or sweet potatoes for different flavors.
Thyme: Fresh thyme gives a wonderful aroma. If you only have dried thyme, that works too—just use less since dried is more concentrated. About a third of the amount should be perfect!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Tender Beef in My Stew?
A key to making tender beef stew is cooking it slowly. Here’s how to get that melt-in-your-mouth texture:
- First, make sure you brown the beef well, as this brings out great flavors.
- Cooking on low heat for a long time (2 to 2.5 hours) is essential. This breaks down tough collagen in the meat, transforming it into tender goodness.
- Check for doneness by poking the beef with a fork—when it easily breaks apart, it’s done!
By following these tips, you’ll have a stew that’s hearty and satisfying every time!
Irish Beef Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-1.5 inch cubes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour, divided
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup Guinness or other stout beer (optional, for authentic flavor)
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 tsp fresh thyme or 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Irish Beef Stew will take about 20 minutes to prepare and about 2 to 2.5 hours to cook, making it a perfect dish to slowly simmer while you enjoy the delightful aromas wafting through your kitchen. Just set aside some time to let the flavors come together beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by patting the beef cubes dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better. Then, season the beef generously with salt and pepper. Toss the seasoned beef with 2 tablespoons of flour until they are lightly coated. This will help thicken the stew later.
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, browning all sides (about 5-7 minutes each batch). Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside. This step is crucial for building flavor in your stew!
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. You want those flavors to combine perfectly!
4. Add the Flour:
Sprinkle the remaining 1 tablespoon of flour over the onions and garlic mixture. Stir well to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes. This helps to remove the raw flour taste and create a flavorful base.
5. Add the Liquids:
Slowly pour in the beef broth and, if you’re using it, the Guinness beer. Be sure to scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to loosen any delicious browned bits. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the browned beef to the pot. Then, add the carrots, potatoes, celery, thyme, and bay leaf. This is where the magic happens, mixing all those wonderful ingredients together!
7. Simmer the Stew:
Cover the pot and let it simmer gently over low heat for about 2 to 2.5 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the beef is very tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Final Touches:
Once ready, remove the bay leaf from the pot. Taste the stew and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. You can always add a little more if it needs it!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. This hearty stew is perfect served hot with a side of crusty bread or traditional Irish soda bread. Sit back, relax, and enjoy your homemade Irish Beef Stew!
This rich and flavorful Irish Beef Stew is sure to warm your heart and fill your belly any day of the year!
Can I Use Another Cut of Beef for This Stew?
Absolutely! While beef chuck is the preferred choice for its tenderness after slow cooking, you can also use brisket or round steak. Just ensure they’re well-marbled for optimal flavor and texture.
Is There a Vegetarian Alternative for This Recipe?
Yes! You can make a delicious vegetarian stew by substituting the beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and eggplant, along with beans for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and skip the beer for a lighter touch.
How to Adjust the Thickness of the Stew?
If your stew is too thin, mix a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the simmering stew. Let it cook for a few more minutes until it thickens. If it’s too thick, simply add more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I Make This Stew in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can! After browning the beef and sautéing the onions and garlic, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You’ll still enjoy all the wonderful flavors—it’s a great time-saver!