Beef With Beer And Herbs
A hearty beef stew infused with beer and herbs, featuring smoky bacon, savory onions, and aromatic spices, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the bacon until crisp, then remove and set aside.
- In the bacon drippings, sauté garlic, chopped onions, and bite-sized beef until browned.
- Add salt and cook until onions are translucent.
- In a separate pan, make a sauce by melting butter, stirring in flour, then adding warm beer to create a thick mixture.
- Pour the beer sauce over the beef, onions, and bacon in the pot.
- Add thyme, rosemary, marjoram, savory, dill, sugar, and vinegar to the stew.
- Simmer the mixture gently until the beef is tender and flavors meld, about 1.5 hours.
- Serve the beef with beer and herbs over rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, use a darker beer like stout or porter. If you don't have chuck beef, brisket or round can work as substitutes. To thicken the sauce further, let it simmer longer without a lid. Adjust the herbs according to your preference; fresh herbs can be a delightful addition. Serve this dish alongside a hearty salad for a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the beef with beer and herbs over a bed of fluffy rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the rich sauce. Pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the flavors. This dish also pairs beautifully with Skillet Mac-N-Beef for a comforting meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain moisture. This dish also freezes well; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef With Beer And Herbs contains roughly 53 calories, with 2g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef and onions first, then transfer them to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you need a bacon substitute, try using turkey bacon or smoked sausage for similar flavors. For a vegetarian option, use smoked paprika and olive oil to add depth to the dish without the meat.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during cooking for some heat. Adjust to your taste, and consider serving it with a spicy side dish like String Bean Creole to complement the flavors.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).