This Irish Beef Stew is full of hearty chunks of beef, soft carrots, and potatoes, all simmered in a rich broth. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl on chilly days!
My favorite part? The smell that fills the kitchen while it cooks, tempting everyone to gather around! 🍲 Pair it with some bread, and you’re all set for a cozy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is perfect for stewing as it has enough fat to keep the meat tender. If you can’t find chuck, try brisket or shoulder, but avoid lean cuts as they can become tough.
Guinness Beer: The stout adds a deep flavor to the stew. If you’re not a fan of beer or prefer to avoid it, use an equal amount of beef broth or a splash of red wine for richness.
Thyme: Fresh thyme is ideal for this stew, giving it an aromatic touch. If you have dried thyme, use less—about one-third of the amount, as dried herbs are stronger.
Vegetables: Carrots and potatoes are classic choices, but feel free to add parsnips or turnips for an interesting twist! Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a slightly different flavor.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Tender Beef in My Stew?
To make sure your beef is perfectly tender, browning the cubes first makes a big difference. This adds flavor through the Maillard reaction, giving a deeper taste to the stew. Here’s how to do it:
- Don’t overcrowd the pot—brown the beef in batches so it sears properly.
- Once browned, let the beef sit for a minute before turning to get a good crust.
- Low and slow is the secret; let the stew simmer gently, which breaks down the meat fibers and makes them tender.
Make sure to adjust cooking times based on your meat’s size—larger chunks may need a bit longer to reach that melt-in-your-mouth texture!
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 beer (optional, for authenticity)
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Total Time Estimate:
This Irish Beef Stew takes about 15 minutes of preparation time, followed by 2 to 2.5 hours of cooking. Most of the time is spent letting the stew simmer, so you can relax while it cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Searing the Beef:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the beef cubes in batches, making sure to brown them on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and lightly browned, which should take about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
3. Combining Ingredients:
Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and Guinness beer (if you’re using it), making sure to scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to release all those flavorful bits. This will add depth to your stew.
4. Simmering to Perfection:
Add the thyme, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper. Bring the stew to a boil, then lower the heat to let it simmer gently. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is tender and delicious.
5. Adding Vegetables:
Once the beef is nice and tender, add the carrots and potatoes to the pot. Cover again and continue to simmer for another 30 to 40 minutes until the vegetables are soft.
6. Final Touches:
Remove the bay leaves from the pot and taste the stew. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. You want to make sure it’s just right!
7. Serving:
Serve the stew hot in bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Enjoy it alongside some warm crusty bread or soda bread for a comforting meal that warms the soul!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! While beef chuck is ideal for its tenderness after slow cooking, you can also use cuts like brisket or round. Just remember, leaner cuts will require more careful cooking to avoid toughness.
Is It Possible to Make This Stew Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the stew a day in advance! In fact, the flavors develop even more overnight. Just allow it to cool completely before refrigerating it. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Can I Freeze Leftover Beef Stew?
Definitely! Allow the stew to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy!
What Can I Serve With Irish Beef Stew?
This hearty stew goes wonderfully with crusty bread or Irish soda bread to mop up the delicious gravy. A side of mashed potatoes or a simple green salad also pairs nicely for a complete meal.
