This hearty Irish Beef Stew is a warm hug in a bowl! With tender beef, carrots, and potatoes simmered in a rich, flavorful broth, it’s perfect for chilly days.
I love how easy it is to make! Just toss everything in a pot, let it bubble away, and soon you have a delicious dinner. Pair it with some crusty bread for that cozy touch! 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is perfect for stews because it becomes tender when cooked slowly. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could use brisket or even lamb for a twist!
Stout Beer: While traditional, you can skip the beer or replace it with additional beef broth if you prefer a non-alcoholic version. Adding a splash of vinegar can still give a nice depth.
Vegetables: Carrots and potatoes are classic, but you can switch them out with parsnips or sweet potatoes if you want a different flavor. Just cut them into similar sizes for even cooking!
Frozen Peas: These add a pop of color and sweetness. You can use green beans or omit them entirely if you prefer. They’re not essential but do add a nice finish.
How Do I Brown the Beef Properly?
Browning the beef is crucial for flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure the beef is dry; pat it with paper towels. This helps achieve a good sear.
- Heat your oil until it shimmers but is not smoking, which means it’s hot enough.
- Add beef in batches to avoid overcrowding. This keeps it from steaming and helps it brown nicely.
- Let the beef cook without moving it for a few minutes, then turn for an even color.
Trust me, this step adds a tons of flavor to your stew!
Why is Sautéing Onions Important?
Sautéing onions softens their bite and brings out their natural sweetness. It’s best to cook them until they’re translucent before adding garlic; about 5 minutes should do the trick. This creates a flavorful base for your stew.
Keep an eye on the heat; if the onions start to brown too much, reduce it slightly. You want them soft, not burnt!
How to Make Irish Beef Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs (900 g) beef chuck, cut into 1 ½-inch cubes
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup stout beer (optional, but traditional)
- 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty Irish Beef Stew takes about 20 minutes to prepare. You will need to let it simmer for about 2 hours, giving you a total time of around 2 hours and 20 minutes. Well worth the wait for that rich flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
First, pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels. This helps in getting a nice brown crust. Place the beef in a large bowl and sprinkle with flour, salt, and pepper. Toss it all together until the beef is evenly coated.
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef cubes in batches (don’t overcrowd the pot). Brown the meat on all sides for about 4-5 minutes. Remove the browned beef and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring until fragrant.
4. Add Flavor:
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor. Be sure to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot for extra taste!
5. Combine Everything:
Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and optional stout beer. Add the dried thyme and bay leaf. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 1 ½ hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.
6. Add Vegetables:
Now it’s time to add the carrots, potatoes, and celery. Stir them into the pot, cover again, and continue to cook for another 30-40 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
7. Final Touches:
Stir in the frozen peas for a splash of color and sweetness, cooking for an additional 5 minutes. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Discard the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the rich, comforting stew into bowls, garnishing with chopped green onions. Pair with crusty bread for a complete meal. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Enjoy your comforting, classic Irish Beef Stew!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Beef?
Yes, you can use other cuts like brisket or round, but beef chuck is favored for its rich flavor and tenderness when slow-cooked. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the cut!
What if I Don’t Have Stout Beer?
No worries! You can simply omit the stout beer and use extra beef broth instead. If you want, adding a splash of vinegar or a little Worcestershire sauce can help mimic that depth of flavor.
Can I Make This Stew in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! After browning the beef and sautéing the onions, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the beef is fork-tender.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, it freezes well for up to 3 months! Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
