This hearty Chocolate Stout Beef Stew is packed with tender beef, rich flavors, and a hint of chocolate. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly nights!
Honestly, adding stout beer is a game-changer. It gives the stew its deep flavor and makes your kitchen smell amazing! I enjoy serving it with some crusty bread for dipping—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is perfect for slow cooking, turning tender and flavorful. If you need a leaner option, you could use sirloin, but it may not be as juicy. I find chuck adds the best texture!
Stout Beer: I love using Guinness for its rich flavor, but any dark beer will work. If you want a non-alcoholic version, replace it with beef broth or root beer for a sweet twist.
Dark Chocolate: A good-quality dark chocolate adds depth to the stew. If you’re out of dark chocolate, try cocoa powder (about 1-2 tbsp) but add it earlier in the cooking process for integration.
Mushrooms: They add an earthy element to the stew. If you’re not a fan, you can skip them or use a mix of other vegetables like parsnips or even zucchini.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Sautéed Vegetables?
Sautéing the vegetables properly sets the stage for the stew’s flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your pot is hot before adding oil. This helps with even cooking.
- Don’t crowd the pot; sauté in batches if necessary. This prevents steaming and allows for browning.
- Stir often, but let them sit for a moment to promote caramelization—this adds a lovely sweetness!
Follow these steps, and you’ll have perfectly sautéed veggies that enhance your stew! Enjoy your cooking!
Instant Pot Chocolate Stout Beef Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Stew:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- 1 cup stout beer (such as Guinness)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 oz dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), chopped or grated
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or thyme sprigs, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious stew takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 35 minutes of cooking time, plus an additional 10 minutes for natural pressure release. In total, expect to spend about 1 hour to prepare and enjoy this hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Searing the Beef:
Start by setting the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and heat olive oil. While it’s heating, season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper. Once hot, working in batches, sear the beef on all sides until browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and mushrooms (if using). Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until the onions become translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
3. Building the Stew Base:
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to coat everything. Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste. Then, stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and fresh thyme to create a rich base for your stew.
4. Adding Liquid and Beef:
Pour in the stout beer, scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to loosen any tasty browned bits. Then, add the beef broth, the seared beef cubes, and the bay leaves. Stir gently to combine everything well.
5. Pressure Cooking:
Secure the lid on the Instant Pot, making sure to seal the vent. Set the cooker to ‘Pressure Cook’ or ‘Manual’ for 35 minutes. While it cooks, your kitchen will smell amazing!
6. Finishing Touches:
Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before carefully performing a quick release for any remaining pressure. Open the lid and stir in the chopped dark chocolate until it completely melts, enriching the stew’s flavor.
7. Serving:
Taste the stew and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaves before serving! Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley or thyme sprigs, and serve hot alongside crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes.
Enjoy this rich and comforting Instant Pot Chocolate Stout Beef Stew!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While beef chuck is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, you can use brisket or even shank if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the cut you choose.
How Can I Thicken the Stew?
If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the stew after pressure cooking and simmer on ‘Sauté’ mode for a few minutes until thickened.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, this stew freezes beautifully! Cool it completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What Should I Serve With This Stew?
This Chocolate Stout Beef Stew pairs well with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or a simple side salad. For a low-carb option, try it with roasted vegetables or cauliflower mash for a hearty meal!
