Warm Up with a Hearty Lager Beef Stew
As the chill of winter sets in, nothing brings comfort quite like a steaming pot of stew simmering on the stove. Our Hearty Lager Beef Stew is a rich and flavorful dish that not only warms you from head to toe but also fills your home with an irresistible aroma. The infusion of lager beer elevates this classic recipe, creating a unique depth of flavor that you and your loved ones will cherish.
This stew is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. The beauty of stew lies not only in its robust flavor but also in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that tastes like it has been lovingly prepared for hours. And the best part? Like most soups and stews, it tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic option for meal prep.
A Personal Touch to Your Stew
Memories of cold evenings spent with family come flooding back when I make this stew. I can recall the laughter and joy that filled the kitchen as we savored each bowl. This Hearty Lager Beef Stew has become a staple in our home, a reminder of warmth and connection during those brisk winter months.
Flavor Profile and Considerations
This stew boasts a delightful combination of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and the subtle kick from smoked paprika. The lager beer not only tenderizes the beef but also adds an extra layer of richness and a hint of sweetness that balances the savory flavors perfectly. The result is a stew that is both satisfying and comforting.
For those who want a vegetarian option, simply replace the beef with hearty mushrooms and use vegetable stock instead of beef broth. This way, everyone can enjoy the cozy delights of stewing.
Getting Started with Your Hearty Lager Beef Stew
Now, let’s get into making this delicious dish at home!
Ingredients
- 3 T. extra virgin olive oil
- 1 lb. beef stew meat, in bite-size cubes
- 1 large onion, finely diced
- 2 large celery stalks, finely diced
- 3 medium garlic cloves, minced
- 1 T. tomato paste
- 1 T. Worcestershire sauce
- 1 t. smoked paprika
- 1 t. dried thyme
- 1 c. lager beer
- 3-1/2 c. beef stock, preferably low sodium
- 3 medium carrots, thickly sliced
- 6-8 baby potatoes, washed and halved
- 1/4 c. fresh parsley, chopped
- Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Heat a large soup pot over medium heat. Add olive oil.
- Once oil is hot, add beef and brown on all sides, approximately 8 minutes.
- Add onion, celery, and garlic. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Cook until the vegetables are slightly soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and thyme. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the lager and beef stock. Cover with a lid and let simmer for 1 hour.
- After 1 hour, add carrots and potatoes. Cook until fork-tender, about 20-25 minutes. If the stew gets too dry, add more beef stock.
- Remove from heat and serve with fresh parsley for garnish. Enjoy!
Final Thoughts
This Hearty Lager Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food, providing warmth, flavor, and satisfaction during cold winter months. Pair it with a crusty bread or a glass of red wine, and you’re in for a delightful treat! Have you tried this recipe? Share your experiences in the comments below!
