Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil: For searing the beef and adding flavor.
• 2 lb / 900 g beef, cut into chunks: Use a well-marbled cut like chuck roast for the best results.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning the beef.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Adds a robust garlic flavor.
• 2 onions, chopped: Provides a sweet and savory base for the stew.
• 6 oz / 170 g bacon, diced: Adds richness and depth of flavor.
• 2 carrots, sliced: For sweetness and texture.
• 2 celery stalks, sliced: Adds a subtle, earthy flavor.
• 3 tbsp flour: Used for thickening the stew.
• 14.9 oz / 440 ml Guinness beer: Adds a deep, malty flavor and helps tenderize the beef.
• 3 tbsp tomato paste: Enhances the stew’s richness and color.
• 3 cups / 750 ml beef broth: Provides the stew’s base liquid.
• 2 bay leaves: Infuse the stew with aromatic flavor.
• 1 tsp thyme: Adds a herby, earthy note.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Chop the beef into bite-sized chunks. Season with salt and black pepper.
   • Dice the bacon, chop the onions, slice the carrots and celery, and mince the garlic.
2. Sear the Beef:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks in batches, searing them on all sides until browned. Remove the beef and set aside.
3. Cook the Bacon and Vegetables:
   • In the same pot, add the diced bacon and cook until crispy. Remove and set aside with the beef.
   • Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until the onions are translucent and the vegetables start to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Deglaze the Pot:
   • Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
   • Pour in the Guinness beer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.
5. Combine Ingredients:
   • Return the seared beef and bacon to the pot. Add the beef broth, bay leaves, and thyme. Stir to combine.
6. Simmer:
   • Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
7. Finish and Serve:
   • Remove the bay leaves before serving. Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips:

• Beef Choice: Use a cut with good marbling, like chuck roast, for the best results. It becomes tender and flavorful after slow cooking.
• Thickening the Stew: If the stew needs thickening, mix a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry, and stir it into the stew. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until thickened.
• Flavor Development: For deeper flavor, allow the stew to sit for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):

• Calories: 350-400
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use a different type of beer?
   • Yes, you can use any dark beer or ale. The flavor will vary slightly, but it will still add a rich depth to the stew.
2. Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
   • Absolutely! After searing the beef and cooking the bacon and vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
3. Can I freeze this stew?
   • Yes, this stew freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
4. What can I serve with beef stew?
   • Serve with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or over rice for a complete meal.

Conclusion:

This Beef Stew with Potatoes is a comforting classic that delivers rich, savory flavors with minimal effort. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering, this recipe provides a satisfying meal that is sure to please. Enjoy the delicious, tender beef, hearty vegetables, and savory broth with every bite!