This hearty Irish beef stew is perfect for chilly nights. It’s filled with tender beef, sweet carrots, and potatoes, all simmered in a delicious broth that warms you right up!
When I make this stew, my entire house smells amazing! I love to serve it with crusty bread to soak up every drop of that rich, tasty sauce. Yum! 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is perfect for stewing because it breaks down beautifully during slow cooking. If beef chuck is unavailable, you can use brisket or round steak, though they may require a little more time to become tender.
Guinness Beer: It adds depth and richness to the stew. If you prefer not to use alcohol, substitute with extra beef broth or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for some acidity.
Potatoes: I love using Yukon Golds for their creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, try using cauliflower. Just keep in mind it may require less cooking time.
Carrots: They give a subtle sweetness to balance the flavors. If carrots aren’t on hand, parsnips are a great swap, adding a different yet delightful taste.
How Do I Ensure My Beef Stew is Extra Tender?
The secret to tender beef lies in how long you cook it and at what heat. Try these steps for best results:
- Brown the meat in batches on medium-high heat. This locks in flavor!
- Simmer gently on low heat with the pot covered. This slow cooking allows the collagen in the beef to break down.
- Patience is key—give it at least 1.5 to 2 hours for that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
By following these tips, you’ll create a stew that’s not just hearty but absolutely comforting. Enjoy! 😊
Irish Beef Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs (900 g) beef chuck, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup Guinness beer (optional, for authentic Irish flavor)
- 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves or 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Irish beef stew will take around 2.5 to 3 hours to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 30 minutes on prep, and the rest of the time is for simmering and letting those lovely flavors meld together. Perfect for a cozy evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by patting the beef cubes dry with paper towels; this helps them sear nicely. Season the beef generously with salt and pepper, then toss the pieces in flour until they’re all coated evenly. This will thicken the stew later on and give the beef a tasty crust.
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. You want them to get a nice sear on all sides. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Build the Stew Base:
Return the seared beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and Guinness if you’re using it, making sure to scrape up any lovely browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. These bits add great flavor!
5. Add Vegetables and Seasoning:
Add the chunks of carrots, sliced celery, thyme, and bay leaves to the pot. Bring the stew to a boil, then lower the heat and cover it. Let it simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is tender and flavorful.
6. Continue Cooking with Potatoes:
After the beef has softened, add the potato chunks. Cover the pot again and continue to simmer for another 30 to 40 minutes until the potatoes are soft and cooked through.
7. Final Touches:
Once everything is cooked, remove the bay leaves from the stew. Give the stew a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your hearty Irish beef stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley. It’s perfect alongside some crusty bread for dipping in the rich and savory broth. Enjoy your meal!
Dig into your comforting Irish Beef Stew, and savor every bite! 🍽️
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Stew?
Yes! If you’re using frozen beef, make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight before you start cooking. This will ensure it browns nicely. If you’re short on time, you can place the sealed package in cold water until defrosted.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this stew gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. If using cornstarch, mix it with a little cold water to create a slurry before adding it to the stew to thicken the broth.
Can I Make This Dish in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! After browning the beef and sautéing the onions and garlic, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it seems too thick. This stew actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop!
