Guinness Stew

This stew can be made ahead; refrigerate for up to 3 days and reheat over medium heat or freeze in plastic containers for up to 3 months.


Nonstick cooking spray
1 1/2 pounds bottom round, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 medium onions, halved and thinly sliced
1 pound cremini or white button mushrooms, cleaned and thinly sliced
2 teaspoons stemmed fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon caraway seeds
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 cups reduced-sodium vegetable broth
1 (12 ounce) bottle Guinness stout
1/2 cup uncooked brown rice

Heat oven to 350 degrees F.

Spray a large casserole or oven-safe saucepan with nonstick spray and set over medium heat. Add the meat (working in batches if necessary) and brown on all sides, turning occasionally, about 4 minutes. Transfer to a plate.

Spray again with nonstick spray and add the onions. Cook, stirring often, until softened, about 4 minutes. Add the mushrooms and continue cooking, stirring frequently, until they release their liquid, about 4 minutes.

Stir in the thyme, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper; cook until aromatic, about 15 seconds.

Pour in the broth and beer, stirring until the foam dissipates. Stir the beef back into the stew and bring to a simmer. Cover and place in the oven to bake for 30 minutes.

Stir in the rice. Cover and bake until the meat and rice are tender, stirring once or twice, about 1 more hour.

Makes 6 cups - Serving size: 1 cup - 6 points per serving