Beef and Guinness stew is a dish that combines the culinary richness of Irish cuisine with techniques adapted in various Latin American countries. Originally, this recipe has its roots in traditional Irish stews where meat is slowly cooked in stout beer, such as Guinness, to enhance its flavor. In countries like Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay, "cazuela" is a common term that refers to homemade stews made with a variety of ingredients, primarily meats and vegetables. Although the preparation and names may vary in each country, the concept of a comforting and nutritious stew remains constant. In Mexico, for example, it is also known as "guisado de carne" (beef stew), while in other places, it is simply referred to as beef stew or beef casserole.
This dish represents a fusion of deep flavors and intense aroma thanks to the use of Guinness beer, which adds a characteristic bitter and malty touch. The combination of ingredients such as bacon, onion, and orange zest provides salty, sweet, and aromatic notes that make this stew a highly appreciated culinary experience at family gatherings or special celebrations.
How to Prepare Beef and Guinness Stew
To begin this delicious recipe, it is essential to have fresh, high-quality ingredients: chuck steak, oil, onions, garlic, flour, Guinness stout beer, beef stock, bacon, dried thyme, and orange.
Cut the steak into 5 cm pieces and set aside.
Heat oil in a large skillet and brown the meat over medium-high heat until well seared.
Transfer the meat to a stew pot to continue with the preparation.
Peel and cut the onions into quarters, separating them into "petals." Add them to the skillet and cook for approximately 3 minutes. Then, add the garlic and cook for one more minute.
Sprinkle the flour over the onion and stir well to coat the onions with the oil and form a thick base for the sauce.
Gradually pour in the stout beer and beef stock, mixing constantly, and bring to a boil to obtain a smooth, well-integrated sauce.
Pour the sauce over the meat in the stew pot. Then, mix in the chopped bacon, thyme, and orange zest to enhance the flavors.
Cook the stew covered at 160 °C for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the flavors are perfectly integrated.
Finally, serve hot accompanied by creamy mashed potatoes to enjoy a complete and comforting dish.
