Beef with Guinness Gravy Recipe

A Hearty and Flavorful Irish-Inspired Dish

Beef with Guinness gravy is a rich, comforting dish that brings together the deep, malty flavors of Guinness stout with tender, slow-cooked beef. The gravy is thick and velvety, infused with the robust taste of stout beer, caramelized onions, and aromatic herbs. This dish is perfect for cozy dinners, festive gatherings, or celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with a traditional Irish-inspired meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Complex Flavor – The dark stout enhances the beef’s natural taste, creating a deeply savory and slightly sweet gravy.
• Tender, Slow-Cooked Beef – The long cooking time ensures that the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether for a family dinner or a special gathering, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Pairs Wonderfully with Sides – Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up every bit of the delicious gravy.

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Ingredients

For the beef:

• 2 lbs (900g) beef chuck or stewing beef, cut into chunks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for coating)

For the gravy:

• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 bottle (12 oz) Guinness stout
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional, to balance bitterness)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening, if needed)

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Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Beef

1. Pat the beef chunks dry with a paper towel and season with salt and pepper.
2. Lightly coat the beef with flour, shaking off excess.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat.
4. Brown the beef in batches, ensuring each piece develops a golden crust. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

5. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
6. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
7. Add the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, stirring well to coat the onions.

Step 3: Deglaze with Guinness

8. Pour in the Guinness, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
9. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes to reduce slightly and develop flavor.

Step 4: Slow Simmer

10. Return the beef to the pot. Add the beef broth, thyme, bay leaf, and brown sugar (if using).
11. Bring to a gentle simmer, then cover and cook on low heat for 2-2.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
12. Check for tenderness— the beef should be easily shredded with a fork.

Step 5: Thicken the Gravy

13. If the gravy is too thin, mix the cornstarch with water and stir it into the pot. Simmer for a few more minutes until thickened.
14. Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

15. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or alongside crusty bread.

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Recipe Variations

• Add Vegetables – Carrots, mushrooms, or parsnips can be added for extra texture and flavor.
• Use a Slow Cooker – Brown the beef and sauté the onions, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
• Make It Creamy – Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for a richer gravy.
• Try Different Beers – If you don’t have Guinness, use another stout or a dark ale for similar depth.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 2.5 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes

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Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, beef chuck, brisket, or short ribs work well for this recipe since they become tender when slow-cooked.

Does the alcohol cook out of the Guinness?

Most of the alcohol evaporates during the long cooking process, leaving behind only the rich, malty flavor.

Can I make this in advance?

Absolutely! The flavors deepen over time, making this dish even better the next day.

What should I serve with Beef Guinness Gravy?

Mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or buttered egg noodles pair beautifully with this dish.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend for coating the beef and a gluten-free stout instead of Guinness.

How can I make the gravy thicker?

If the gravy is too thin, mix 1 tbsp of cornstarch with 2 tbsp of water and stir it in while simmering.

Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for Guinness?

You can use beef broth with a splash of balsamic vinegar for a similar deep, savory flavor.

Can I add potatoes to the stew?

Yes, diced potatoes can be added during the last 45 minutes of cooking.

Will this work in a pressure cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef, then pressure cook on high for 45 minutes with a natural release.

How do I reduce the bitterness of the Guinness?

Adding a bit of brown sugar or a splash of cream can help balance the bitterness.

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Conclusion

Beef with Guinness gravy is a deeply flavorful, comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a cold evening or a special dish for a festive gathering, this recipe delivers tender beef and a rich, savory gravy that pairs beautifully with your favorite sides. Try it once, and it just might become a staple in your kitchen!

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