Guinness Chili for Two

This Guinness Chili for Two is a bold, hearty, and deeply flavored dish inspired by Irish stout ale. Using stew meat, bacon, and a robust blend of spices, this chili develops rich flavors with a thick texture. A slow turn in the oven enhances its depth, making it the perfect small-batch comfort meal for chilly evenings.

Essential Ingredients

To create this flavor-packed Guinness chili, you’ll need:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 slice bacon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 1/2 pounds beef stew meat
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 1/4 cup cilantro leaves
• 2 teaspoons garlic paste
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1/8 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/8 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 5 fluid ounces Irish stout (such as Guinness® Draught Ale)
• 1 (5-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 1/2 cups beef broth
• Sliced green onion and cilantro, for garnish

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preheat and Cook Bacon

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Add oil to an oven-safe pot over medium heat.
3. Cook bacon until golden but not crispy, about 3 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef

4. Season stew meat with salt and pepper.
5. Place flour in a bowl and dredge beef cubes, shaking off excess.
6. Add beef to the pot and brown on all sides, mixing with bacon.
7. Pour in ½ cup beef broth to deglaze the pot.

Step 3: Add Aromatics and Spices

8. Stir in onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
9. Add tomato paste, chili powder, oregano, cumin, paprika, and coriander.
10. Stir until everything is well coated with spices.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Simmer

11. Pour in Guinness, scraping up any bits from the bottom.
12. Add tomato sauce and remaining beef broth.
13. Season with salt and pepper and bring to a boil.

Step 5: Bake in the Oven

14. Transfer the pot to the oven and bake uncovered for 1 ½ to 2 hours.
15. Stir every 30 minutes to prevent sticking, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

16. Once thickened and the beef is tender, ladle into bowls.
17. Garnish with green onions and fresh cilantro.

Health Benefits

• High Protein: Contains 122g of protein per serving, great for muscle repair.
• Iron-Rich: With 16mg of iron, this dish supports healthy blood circulation.
• Rich in Potassium: Provides 2077mg of potassium, which aids in heart health.
• Low in Carbs: A great low-carb option with just 44g of total carbohydrates.

Serving Suggestions

• With Crusty Bread: Enjoy with Irish soda bread or a toasted baguette.
• Over Mashed Potatoes: Serve over buttery mashed potatoes for an extra comforting meal.
• With Rice or Quinoa: Pair with brown rice or quinoa for a hearty yet balanced dish.
• Topped with Sour Cream & Cheese: Add a dollop of sour cream and shredded cheddar for a creamy finish.

Creative Variations

• Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Vegetable Boost: Mix in diced bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms.
• Beer Alternatives: Substitute Guinness with a dark ale or red wine.
• Slow Cooker Method: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
• Thicker Chili: Stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water) if needed.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for Later: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months.
• Reheat Properly: Reheat on stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if too thick.

Pro Tips

• Use High-Quality Beef: The better the cut, the more tender and flavorful your chili will be.
• Deglaze the Pan Well: Scrape up all the browned bits for maximum flavor.
• Don’t Skip the Oven Bake: This allows the chili to thicken and develop deep flavors.
• Let it Rest: Allow the chili to sit for 5 minutes before serving to enhance the taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Guinness chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Can I make this with ground beef instead?
Yes! Brown ground beef instead of stew meat and reduce cooking time to 45 minutes.

Can I skip the Guinness?
Absolutely! Replace it with extra beef broth or a splash of red wine.

How can I make it less spicy?
Reduce the chili powder or use mild paprika instead of smoked.

Enjoy this Guinness Chili for Two, a rich, hearty, and deeply flavorful dish, perfect for cozy nights and celebrating Irish flavors

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