Beer Braised Beef is a robust and hearty dish that combines the deep flavors of dark beer with tender, slow-cooked beef. This culinary delight is perfect for colder months, offering a warm, comforting meal that’s packed with layers of flavor. The beer’s natural maltiness complements the rich savoriness of the beef, while vegetables and herbs add depth and brightness to the dish. As the beef simmers slowly in the beer mixture, it becomes remarkably tender and infused with the ale’s complex notes. This method not only tenderizes tougher cuts of beef but also creates a rich, flavorful gravy that’s ideal for serving over mashed potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread, making this dish a satisfying dinner option for any night of the week.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch cubes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 12 ounces dark beer (such as stout or porter)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
Directions:
- Prepare the Beef:
- Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper. Heat the vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches and brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes per batch. Transfer the browned beef to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook over medium heat until the vegetables start to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and tomato paste, stirring for another minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze the Pot:
- Pour in the dark beer and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Allow the beer to simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.
- Braise the Beef:
- Return the beef and any accumulated juices to the pot. Add the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let simmer gently for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the beef is very tender.
- Finish the Dish:
- Once the beef is tender, remove the bay leaves and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. If the sauce is too thin, you can simmer it uncovered for a few minutes to reduce to your desired consistency.
- Serve:
- Serve the beer braised beef hot, ideally over mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the rich, flavorful sauce.
Beer Braised Beef is a classic dish that’s both simple to prepare and deeply satisfying. This meal is sure to impress with its tender beef and flavorful gravy, making it a favorite comfort food that’s perfect for enjoying on a relaxing weekend or sharing with friends and family during a casual dinner party.
