St. Patrick’s Day Food: Irish Beef Stew Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compare to a hearty and flavorful Irish Beef Stew. This classic recipe brings together tender chunks of chuck roast, aromatic herbs, and a rich, savory broth that’s perfect for warming you up on chilly days. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or simply craving a satisfying meal, this step-by-step guide will walk you through creating a delicious Irish Beef Stew that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients You Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step in creating an unforgettable Irish Beef Stew. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 ½ pounds Chuck Roast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 onions
• 3-5 cloves of garlic
• 1 bottle of Guinness stout beer (or beef broth)
• 2-3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Fresh Thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves
• 2-3 carrots
• 2-3 stalks celery
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 ½ cups chicken stock, or as needed to cover
• Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper
• Low sodium beef base
• Mashed potatoes (optional) for serving

Step by Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Beef and Vegetables

• Start by cutting the Chuck Roast into bite-sized pieces, ensuring that they’re evenly sized for even cooking. Season the beef with a pinch of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, and set it aside.
• Dice the onions, carrots, and celery into small pieces. Mince the garlic cloves and gather the fresh herbs – thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.

2. Searing the Beef

• In a large, heavy pot or Dutch oven, heat a bit of bacon fat over medium-high heat. Once the fat is hot, carefully add the seasoned beef pieces. Sear the beef on all sides until they develop a rich, brown crust. This step helps lock in the flavors and adds depth to the stew.

3. Cooking the Aromatic Vegetables

• Remove the seared beef from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté them until they begin to soften and develop a golden color. Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, and all-purpose flour, allowing them to cook for a minute or two to develop flavor.

4. Adding Flavorful Ingredients

• Return the seared beef to the pot, and pour in the Guinness stout beer (or beef broth) to add a rich, malty flavor to the stew. Add the fresh herbs – thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Sprinkle in the brown sugar for a hint of sweetness. Pour in the chicken stock, ensuring that the ingredients are adequately covered.
• Cover the pot with a lid and let the stew come to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for about 2 to 3 hours.

5. Serving the Delicious Irish Beef Stew

• Once the stew has simmered to perfection, it’s time to serve. Ladle the piping hot Irish Beef Stew over mashed potatoes if desired, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. The flavors of the tender beef, aromatic vegetables, and rich broth come together for a delightful experience.

FAQs

Q: Can I use beef broth instead of Guinness beer? A: Absolutely! While Guinness beer adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with beef broth for a non-alcoholic alternative.

Q: Do I need to sear the beef before cooking? A: Yes, searing the beef before cooking adds depth and richness to the flavor of the stew.

Q: Can I make this stew in a slow cooker? A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Follow the same steps for preparing ingredients and searing the beef, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Q: Is the brown sugar necessary? A: The brown sugar adds a subtle sweetness that balances the flavors of the stew, but you can omit it if desired.

Q: Can I freeze leftover Irish Beef Stew? A: Yes, Irish Beef Stew freezes well. Store it in airtight containers and thaw before reheating.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat the stew? A: Reheat the stew gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

Making a mouthwatering Irish Beef Stew doesn’t have to be intimidating. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a hearty and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. From the tender chunks of seared beef to the flavorful broth and aromatic vegetables, this stew is a true celebration of comfort food at its finest. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of Irish Beef Stew that’s packed with flavor and love.