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Beef and Guinness stew is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for those chilly days when you’re craving a warm and satisfying meal. This classic Irish stew combines tender beef, root vegetables, and a rich Guinness-based gravy for a flavorful and hearty result. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delicious stew.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds (900g) stewing beef, cut into chunks
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 onions, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
• 4 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cups (475ml) Guinness stout
• 2 cups (475ml) beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prep the Beef:
   • Start by patting the beef chunks dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. In a large bowl, season the beef with salt and black pepper. Then, dust the beef with flour, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
2. Sear the Beef:
   • In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks in batches and brown them on all sides. This step is essential for building flavor. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
   • In the same pot, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until they become translucent and fragrant, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
4. Deglaze with Guinness:
   • Pour in the Guinness stout to deglaze the pot. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This process adds depth and richness to the stew.
5. Add the Beef Back:
   • Return the browned beef to the pot and stir to combine it with the onions and Guinness.
6. Stir in Tomato Paste and Brown Sugar:
   • Add the tomato paste and brown sugar, stirring until they are well incorporated. This adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the stew.
7. Pour in Beef Broth:
   • Add the beef broth, dried thyme, and bay leaves to the pot. These ingredients will form the savory base of the stew.
8. Simmer and Cook:
   • Cover the pot and bring the stew to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours or until the beef becomes tender. Stir occasionally.
9. Add Vegetables:
   • After the beef is tender, add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and chopped celery to the pot. These vegetables will absorb the rich flavors of the stew.
10. Simmer Again:
    • Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for an additional 30-40 minutes or until the vegetables are soft and the stew has thickened.
11. Check for Seasoning:
    • Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
12. Serve and Garnish:
    • Ladle the hot beef and Guinness stew into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

This beef and Guinness stew is a delicious, hearty meal that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a warm gathering with friends. The slow simmering allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a savory and rich gravy that perfectly complements the tender beef and vegetables. Serve it with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort food experience. Enjoy!