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Imagine spoonfuls of melt-in-your-mouth beef simmered in robust Guinness and layered with sweet and savory caramelised onions on a pillowy bed of mashed potatoes. This comforting stew may call to mind cozy evenings and warm gatherings, but it’s fit for any time you crave hearty, classic flavors with a modern twist.
Ingredients
- 1½ lb (680 g) stewing beef, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 cup (240 ml) Guinness stout
- 2 cups (480 ml) beef stock
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced (for caramelising)
- 2 tablespoons butter, plus extra for mash
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped (for mash)
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk or cream
Instructions
Begin by browning the beef: warm a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat, drizzle in the vegetable oil, and sear the beef chunks on all sides. This step ensures that deep, savory flavor gets locked into every bite. Transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
In the same pot, sauté the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until gently softened—about five minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and dried thyme, letting the paste cook for a minute to bring out its sweetness. Add the seared beef back into the pot, then pour in the Guinness and beef stock. Give everything a quick stir, and season with salt and pepper. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for about 1½ to 2 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and the broth is luxuriously thick.
Meanwhile, caramelise the onions: melt the butter in a separate pan over low heat, add the sliced onions, and stir regularly until they turn golden and sweet—this can take up to 20 minutes. While the onions cook, boil the potatoes for the mash in a saucepan of salted water until they’re tender. Drain well, then mash them with a splash of milk or cream, a knob of butter, and a pinch of salt.
To assemble, spoon the Guinness beef stew into a baking dish or individual ramekins, spread a layer of mashed potatoes on top, and finish with a generous mound of caramelised onions. If you like, pop it under the broiler for a few moments to let the edges crisp and the flavors mingle further.
This stew is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for cozy nights and special get-togethers. The use of Guinness imparts a distinct malty richness that’s balanced by the natural sweetness of caramelised onions. If you’re looking to lighten things up, you can substitute leaner cuts of meat or lighter root vegetables, and feel free to use a non-alcoholic stout for those avoiding alcohol. Served with a bright green salad or crusty bread, this one-pot wonder invites everyone around the table for a deliciously hearty meal.
