Irish Beef Stew is a traditional dish known for its deep, rich flavor and warming character. Made with chunks of beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions simmered slowly in a savory broth — often with a splash of stout — this stew is all about simple ingredients cooked slowly for maximum flavor. It’s perfect for cold evenings or when you need a filling, rustic meal. This recipe serves 4.
Ingredients
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500g stewing beef (chuck or brisket), cut into chunks
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Salt and black pepper
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2 tablespoons flour (for dusting)
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2 tablespoons oil or butter
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1 large onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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3 carrots, peeled and cut into thick rounds
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3 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
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2 tablespoons tomato paste
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1½ cups beef stock
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1 cup Guinness stout or water (optional for extra depth)
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1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 sprig fresh thyme
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1 bay leaf
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Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
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Prepare the Meat
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Pat the beef dry and season with salt and pepper. Lightly coat with flour.
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In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches until well-seared on all sides. Remove and set aside.
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Cook the Vegetables
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In the same pot, add chopped onion and cook until softened (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
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Stir in tomato paste and cook for another minute.
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Simmer the Stew
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Return the beef to the pot. Add carrots, potatoes, thyme, and bay leaf.
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Pour in beef stock and Guinness (or more stock if not using beer). The liquid should mostly cover the ingredients.
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Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1½ to 2 hours, or until the beef is very tender and the stew is thick.
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Taste and Finish
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Remove bay leaf. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
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Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
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Serving
Serve hot with crusty bread, soda bread, or over mashed potatoes. It’s also great with a knob of butter stirred in just before serving.
Storing
Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days and freezes beautifully. Flavors deepen overnight.
Irish Beef Stew is a no-fuss, one-pot meal that brings comfort in every bite.
