Beef and Beer Stew With Root Vegetables Recipe Guide

There’s something truly comforting about a hearty beef and beer stew, especially when it’s loaded with an assortment of earthy root vegetables. This classic dish is the epitome of cozy home cooking, perfect for chilly evenings when you crave something rich, warm, and deeply satisfying.

Slow-cooked to perfection, the tender chunks of beef soak up the robust flavors of the beer and aromatic herbs, while the root vegetables add texture, sweetness, and a touch of rustic charm. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply want to unwind with a bowl of soulful stew, this recipe promises to deliver a winning combination of bold and comforting flavors that everyone will love.

In this post, I’ll walk you through every step to make this stew effortlessly, with tips to elevate the dish and ideas for variations. Plus, I’ll share some thoughtful serving suggestions and nutrition info so you can enjoy this meal guilt-free.

If you enjoy hearty stews, don’t forget to check out my other recipes like 15 Bean Soup Slow Cooker Recipe Vegetarian and Delicious for more cozy inspiration!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Beef and beer stew with root vegetables is a timeless comfort food that brings together rich, deep flavors and nourishing ingredients. The slow simmering process breaks down tougher cuts of beef, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.

Meanwhile, the beer adds a subtle maltiness and depth that’s hard to replicate with any other liquid. Root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and potatoes provide natural sweetness and a satisfying bite.

This stew is incredibly versatile and easy to make, requiring just one pot and simple ingredients you might already have in your pantry. It’s also a fantastic make-ahead meal, as the flavors only improve after resting overnight.

The recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike, making it a great go-to when you want something hearty without fuss.

Finally, the recipe encourages you to explore other hearty meals—check out Best Vegetarian Slow Cooker Recipes NZ For Easy Meals for more comforting ideas.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds (900g) beef chuck, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 12 ounces (355 ml) dark beer (such as stout or porter)
• 3 cups beef broth
• 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 parsnips, peeled and chopped
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle for serving
• Bowl for dredging beef in flour

Instructions

1. Prepare the beef: Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels. Toss them in a bowl with the flour until each piece is coated evenly. This will help thicken the stew later.
2. Brown the beef: Heat the olive oil in your Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches—don’t overcrowd the pot—and brown on all sides. Once browned, transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
3. Sauté the aromatics: In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Deglaze with beer: Pour in the dark beer, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot with your wooden spoon. This adds wonderful flavor to the stew.
5. Add broth and beef: Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, and stir to combine everything.
6. Add vegetables and herbs: Toss in the carrots, parsnips, potatoes, celery, thyme, and bay leaves. Season generously with salt and pepper.
7. Simmer the stew: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
8. Adjust seasoning and finish: Remove the bay leaves. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a thicker stew, uncover and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to reduce the liquid.
9. Serve and garnish: Ladle the stew into bowls and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips & Variations

“For the best results, use a dark, malty beer like a stout or porter to add richness and depth. If you prefer a milder flavor, a brown ale works well too.”

• Vegetable swaps: Feel free to add turnips, rutabaga, or even sweet potatoes for extra sweetness and variety.
• Make it spicier: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the stew for a subtle kick.
• Slow cooker option: Brown the beef and sauté the onions, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
• For thicker stew: Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir into the stew at the end. Cook for a few more minutes until thickened.
• Beer-free version: Substitute the beer with an equal amount of beef broth and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce for a similar umami flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This stew is wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more satisfying:

• Crusty bread: Serve with a thick slice of sourdough or a crusty baguette to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Buttery mashed potatoes: A classic pairing that makes the meal extra comforting, especially for those who love creamy textures.
• Over egg noodles: For a twist, serve the stew ladled over buttered egg noodles or even creamy polenta.
• Fresh greens: Balance the richness with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette.
• Roasted root vegetables: Double down on root veggies by roasting some alongside the stew for extra texture and flavor.

Conclusion

There’s no doubt that this beef and beer stew with root vegetables is a soul-warming dish you’ll want to make again and again. With its tender beef, rich beer-infused broth, and a medley of hearty vegetables, it’s the perfect meal to chase away cold weather blues or satisfy a hungry crowd.

The slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a stew that’s both comforting and impressive with minimal effort.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe is approachable, flexible, and endlessly delicious. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the herbs and spices or substitute the root vegetables to suit your taste.

For more hearty and wholesome recipes, explore Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals or try the Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend to add some heat to your cooking repertoire.

Enjoy every savory spoonful, and happy cooking!

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