Why Make This Recipe
Irish Beef Stew is a classic dish that combines tender beef with hearty vegetables. It is perfect for chilly days when you want something warm and comforting. This stew is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it a great option for family dinners or gatherings. With rich flavors and a satisfying texture, it will surely impress your guests and keep your family coming back for more.
How to Make Irish Beef Stew
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 2 parsnips, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for browning the beef
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the beef cubes and brown on all sides.
- Add the onions and cook until soft.
- Stir in tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, add carrots, potatoes, parsnips, and bay leaf.
- Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
- Remove bay leaf and serve hot.

How to Serve Irish Beef Stew
Serve Irish Beef Stew hot in bowls. You can pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
How to Store Irish Beef Stew
To store leftovers, let the stew cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It can be stored for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.
Tips to Make Irish Beef Stew
- Choose good quality beef chuck for the best flavor.
- Browning the beef first adds more depth to the stew.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or green beans for more variety.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
Variations
You can make this stew with different cuts of meat, such as lamb or pork. You can also make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free beef broth and ensuring the tomato paste does not contain gluten.
FAQs
Can I make Irish Beef Stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can brown the beef and vegetables in a pan and then transfer them to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.What can I serve on the side with this stew?
Irish Beef Stew pairs well with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.Can I add red wine to the stew?
Absolutely! Adding a cup of red wine after browning the beef can enhance the flavors greatly. Just let it simmer for a few minutes before adding the broth.

Irish Beef Stew
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes Choose good quality beef for the best flavor.
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 2 parsnips, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
Cooking Liquids & Seasonings
- 4 cups beef broth Use gluten-free broth for a gluten-free option.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste Ensure it’s gluten-free if required.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste Adjust to your preference.
- Olive oil For browning the beef.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the beef cubes and brown on all sides.
- Add the onions and cook until soft.
Cooking
- Stir in tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, add carrots, potatoes, parsnips, and bay leaf.
- Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
- Remove bay leaf and serve hot.