As we say goodbye to the warmer weather and welcome the fall, it’s time to crack out one of my favorite recipes for this time of year – a classic Irish stew, made with beef (my preference) or vegetables – the Guinness is mandatory however!

To do this recipe justice you need to start at lunchtime and let it simmer throughout the afternoon. By the time it gets dusk you won’t be able to hold back any longer and expect other campers – if you are on a site – to wander over and ask you what’s cooking!

History:

This is a twist on the traditional recipe, an Irish stew was traditionally made with mutton and potatoes or other root vegetables, however I prefer to use beef. I personally cook the potatoes separately as I find they breakdown when boiled for a long time.

Recipe: (For a large cast iron pot)

  • 1 kg stewing beef
  • 2 large onions (chopped)
  • 2-4 cloves garlic
  • 4 carrots (peeled and chopped)
  • 8-10 mushrooms (chopped)
  • 1/2 pack of bacon (save the rest for breakfast)
  • Tomato paste (small can)
  • 1 can of Guinness
  • 2 cups beef stock
  • Handful of thyme and bay leaves

Method:

I prefer to cook on a wood or charcoal fire, but if you prefer using the stove that is totally fine, most importantly  you will need a low and consistent heat for the next few hours.

  1. Cut the onions and garlic and gently fry them in olive oil
  2. Brown the meat
  3. Add the bacon once the meat has browned
  4. Add the thyme and bay leaves
  5. Once the bacon starts to release the fat add the chopped carrots
  6. Salt and pepper to taste
  7. Add the stock and Guinness
  8. Add the tomato paste
  9. Add the mushrooms
  10. Allow to simmer for 2-3 hours depending on heat
  11. Simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes once the sauce has reduced and begins to thicken
  12. You may prefer to thicken the sauce with a bit of flour

Once your beef stew is cooked, enjoy with a thick piece of freshly cut bread and butter and a nice cold beer. You can also serve with boiled or mashed potatoes.

Skip the Shopping:

Do you want these ingredients pre-stocked in your overland vehicle? No problem, we offer a camp shopping service so you can literally pick up the keys and go.