This Irish Beef Stew is a warm and hearty dish, perfect for cozy dinners. With tender beef, carrots, and potatoes simmered in a rich broth, it’s a true comfort food.
Whenever I make this stew, the whole house smells amazing! I love pairing it with some crusty bread for dipping—you really can’t go wrong with that combo!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is ideal due to its rich flavor and tender texture after slow cooking. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can substitute with beef round or brisket.
Guinness Stout: It adds a deep flavor to the stew. If you prefer not to use alcohol, feel free to substitute with more beef broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar for acidity.
Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, and celery are classics in this stew. You can mix in parsnips or turnips for more variety. If you’re low on potatoes, sweet potatoes work great too!
Tomato Paste: It enhances the stew’s richness. If you don’t have it, you can use crushed tomatoes or even a spoonful of ketchup in a pinch.
How Do I Achieve the Perfectly Tender Beef?
Getting tender beef is all about the slow cooking process. After browning the meat, give it plenty of time to simmer in the broth. Here’s how to do it well:
- Start with high heat to brown the beef. This adds amazing flavor!
- Lower the heat and let it simmer gently. A covered pot helps lock in moisture, making the beef tender.
- Cook it long enough; aim for about 2 hours total cooking time with veggies added later. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
By following these tips, you’ll have a comforting stew that’s thick, hearty, and perfect for sharing. Enjoy your cooking journey!
How to Make Irish Beef Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 pounds (900g) beef chuck, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup Guinness stout (optional, but traditional)
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Irish Beef Stew will take you about 20 minutes to prepare and roughly 2.5 hours of cooking time. It may seem like a long time, but most of that is hands-off while the stew simmers and flavors develop. Perfect for a cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Sear the beef in batches, turning occasionally until browned on all sides—this will lock in flavor. Once done, remove the beef and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion. Cook for about 5 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until you can smell its wonderful aroma.
3. Build the Stew Base:
Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for 2 minutes. This helps to develop a richer flavor. Now, return the browned beef to the pot.
4. Add the Liquid and Spices:
Pour in the beef broth and the optional Guinness stout for extra depth. Mix in Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 1.5 hours—this is the magic moment when the meat starts to tenderize!
5. Toss in the Veggies:
After 1.5 hours, add the chunks of carrots, potatoes, and sliced celery to the pot. Continue to simmer for another 45 minutes or until the vegetables are tender, and the beef is deliciously soft.
6. Final Touches:
Before serving, taste the stew and add any additional salt and black pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaves from the pot.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the warm stew into bowls and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley on top for a fresh flavor boost. Serve hot, ideally accompanied by a slice of crusty bread. Enjoy this hearty and comforting dish with family and friends!
This Irish Beef Stew is sure to be a new family favorite, filled with tender beef and vibrant vegetables in a savory broth. Nothing better for a cozy gathering or a chilly day!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! While beef chuck is recommended for its tenderness after slow cooking, you can also use brisket or round if needed. Just ensure they’re well-seared to develop flavor!
How Can I Thicken the Stew?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the stew during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. Another option is to mash some of the potatoes in the stew to help it thicken naturally.
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. Add all remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef and vegetables are tender.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little beef broth if it’s too thick.
