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Irish Beef Stew With Guinness: A Perfect Comfort Food for Any Occasion

When it comes to classic comfort food, few dishes can rival a hearty Irish beef stew. Infused with the rich, deep flavours of Guinness, this dish is a celebration of simple ingredients cooked to perfection. Whether you choose to make it on the stove top or in a slow cooker, this recipe is flexible, easy to prepare, and perfect for meal prep. Let’s dive into the details of creating this splendid dish.

Ingredients

For the Stove Top Method:

• 1 kg beef stewing meat (chuck or brisket), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 medium onions, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 stalks of celery, chopped
• 4 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 500 ml Guinness beer
• 500 ml beef stock
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

For the Slow Cooker Method:

The same ingredients can be used, but you won’t need the oil and can skip the browning step. Just combine all ingredients in the slow cooker.

Method

Stove Top Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef:
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot, and brown all sides. This step adds depth to the flavour of your stew. Once browned, remove the beef and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   In the same pot, add the chopped onions. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they become translucent. Add the garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until tender.

3. Combine and Simmer:
   Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, then return the beef to the pot. Pour in the Guinness beer and beef stock, followed by thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Allow it to simmer gently for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the beef is tender.

4. Add Potatoes:
   About 30 minutes before serving, add the diced potatoes to the stew. Continue to simmer until the potatoes are cooked through.

5. Serve:
   Once ready, remove the bay leaf and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley, and enjoy with crusty bread or over creamy mashed potatoes.

Slow Cooker Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:
   In your slow cooker, add the beef, onions, garlic, carrots, celery, potatoes, and tomato paste.

2. Add Liquids and Season:
   Pour the Guinness and beef stock over the ingredients. Sprinkle in the thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.

3. Cook:
   Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavours are well combined.

4. Serve:
   Just like the stove top method, remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your choice of sides.

Meal Prep Tips

Irish beef stew is perfect for meal prep. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, and the flavours actually deepen over time. Divide the stew into airtight containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. You can also freeze portions for up to three months; just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing.

Conclusion

This Irish beef stew with Guinness is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly evening, a taste of comfort that reminds us of home. Whether you prepare it on the stove top or in a slow cooker, this dish is sure to delight your family and friends. Don’t forget to pair it with a good slice of bread and perhaps a pint of Guinness for the full experience. Enjoy cooking and enjoy your stew!

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