Hearty Beef and Guinness Stew

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Hearty Beef and Guinness Stew.

1. Step 1

   Start by gathering all your ingredients for a seamless cooking experience.

2. Step 2

   In a sturdy skillet over medium-high heat, cook the bacon, stirring until it turns a delightful brown and crisp, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes.

3. Step 3

   Once perfectly cooked, turn off the heat and transfer the bacon to a large stew pot, making sure to keep the flavorful bacon fat in the skillet.

4. Step 4

   Generously season the beef chuck cubes with a teaspoon of salt and a dash of black pepper.

5. Step 5

   Crank up the heat to high and sear the beef in the hot bacon fat until it’s beautifully browned on both sides, roughly 5 minutes.

6. Step 6

   Move the seared beef to the stew pot with the bacon, leaving the fat behind.

7. Step 7

   Lower the heat to medium and toss in the onions, cooking and stirring until they achieve a lovely light brown color, about 5 to 8 minutes, adding a pinch of salt to enhance their sweetness.

8. Step 8

   Introduce the minced garlic to the onions and sauté until fragrant and soft, about 1 minute.

9. Step 9

   Pour in the dark beer, using a wooden spoon to deglaze the skillet by scraping up any tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom.

10. Step 10

    Transfer this rich cooking liquid into the stew pot, then stir in the tomato paste, carrots, celery, thyme sprigs, sugar, half a teaspoon of black pepper, and enough chicken stock to cover all the ingredients.

11. Step 11

    Bring the stew to a gentle simmer, stirring to meld the flavors.

12. Step 12

    Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer until the beef is fork-tender, which should take about 2 hours.

13. Step 13

    Stir occasionally and skim off any excess fat or foam if you prefer a cleaner broth.

14. Step 14

    After 2 hours, remove the lid and increase the heat to medium-high, allowing the stew to come to a low boil.

15. Step 15

    Cook for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until it thickens slightly.

16. Step 16

    Discard the thyme sprigs and taste, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

17. Step 17

    For a beautiful presentation, arrange creamy mashed potatoes in a ring on a serving platter and ladle the hearty stew into the center, inviting everyone to dig in and enjoy a comforting meal.