Save to Pinterest This dish features slow-cooked beef chuck combined with onions, carrots, parsnips, celery, and potatoes. The rich, malt-infused broth is made with low-sodium beef stock, malt extract syrup, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce, delivering layers of deep, savory flavor. The cooking process allows the meat to become tender while the vegetables soften to complement the hearty sauce. This comforting Irish-inspired stew suits both simple family meals and special gatherings, offering robust, balancing tastes without alcohol.
Discovering this Beef and Guinness-Style Stew was like finding a cozy hug on a chilly evening. The rich, hearty flavors reminded me of family dinners where stories and laughter filled the air as the stew slowly simmered away.
I remember the first time unexpected guests showed up and I tossed together this stew on a whim—it turned into an instant favorite and a go-to for gatherings.
Ingredients
- Beef chuck: I always reach for beef chuck because its marbling breaks down beautifully for tender bites
- Onions and root vegetables: These bring natural sweetness and texture, making the stew hearty and full of character
- Beef stock: Low-sodium options let me control the salt and enhance the stew's richness
- Malt extract syrup: Adds that signature deep maltiness without alcohol, but molasses can be a handy substitute
- Worcestershire sauce: Make sure it’s alcohol-free to keep it family-friendly and flavorful
Instructions
- Get Everything Ready:
- Pat the beef cubes dry to ensure they brown nicely and season with salt and pepper to build flavor right from the start.
- Sear the Beef:
- Heat oil over medium-high in a heavy pot, letting the beef brown in batches until golden. This step fills the kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.
- Sauté the Veggies:
- Lower heat and soften the onions, carrots, parsnips, and celery, stirring occasionally until they start to mellow and sweeten.
- Add Garlic and Tomato Paste:
- Stir these in and cook until fragrant, a minute that awakens the senses and deepens the stew’s flavor profile.
- Coat with Flour:
- Sprinkle flour evenly, stirring well to avoid lumps; it thickens the stew as it simmers to that perfect velvet texture.
- Combine and Simmer:
- Return beef and juices to the pot, add potatoes, herbs, stock, Worcestershire sauce, and malt extract. Stir, scrape the pot bottom, then simmer low and slow, filling your kitchen with cozy smells for two hours.
- Final Touches:
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, remove bay leaves, and get ready to savor a bowl of pure comfort.
Save to Pinterest This stew became more than a meal one winter night when it brought my family together after a long day; the warmth and richness felt like celebration in every spoonful.
Keeping It Fresh
Adding a handful of chopped parsley right before serving brightens the stew and adds a burst of fresh color that feels like a happy surprise in every bite.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
We love serving this stew with crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up every drop, making each meal feel indulgent yet homey.
A Time This Recipe Saved the Day
Once, when last-minute guests arrived, this stew pulled together effortlessly, earning rave reviews and a place as my signature comfort dish.
- Always keep malt extract on hand for those surprise dinners
- Don’t forget to remove the bay leaves before serving—it’s a small step that shows you care
- Leftovers taste even better the next day, so plan for seconds
Save to Pinterest Thanks for spending this cooking moment with me—here’s to many hearty meals full of love and good company.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What cut of beef works best for this stew?
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Beef chuck is ideal for this dish due to its marbling and tenderness after slow cooking.
- → Can I substitute malt extract syrup with anything else?
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Molasses can be used as a substitute to maintain a similar malty sweetness if malt extract is unavailable.
- → How do I achieve a thicker stew consistency?
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Uncover the pot during the last 20 minutes of cooking to reduce and thicken the broth.
- → Is it necessary to brown the beef before simmering?
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Browning enhances flavor through caramelization and adds depth to the final dish.
- → What sides pair well with this stew?
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Crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes complement the rich flavors and help soak up the sauce.
