Go Back
+ servings
Beef Carbonnade Stew

Beef Carbonnade Stew That Warms Your Soul on Chilly Nights

Enjoy Beef Carbonnade Stew, a hearty Belgian-inspired dish that warms your soul and delights your senses.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Beef
Cuisine: Belgian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Stew
  • 2 lbs Beef Chuck Can substitute with short ribs or brisket.
  • 1 cup Dark Beer Opt for stout or porter.
  • 2 large Onions Sweetness and aroma base.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Use fresh for maximum impact.
  • 2 tbsp Flour Thickens the sauce.
  • 2 cups Beef Broth Enhances overall beef flavor.
  • 2 tbsp Brown Sugar Balances acidity.
  • 1 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar Brightens flavors.
  • 1 tsp Thyme Aromatic herb.
  • 1 Bay Leaf Remove before serving.
  • Salt and Pepper Essential to taste.
  • Oil For searing the beef.
For Serving
  • Crusty Bread Perfect for dipping.
  • Traditional Belgian Frites A delightful complement.

Equipment

  • heavy-bottomed pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Beef Carbonnade Stew
  1. Prepare the Beef: Pat the beef chuck cubes dry with paper towels. Cut into 1-2 inch pieces and set aside.
  2. Sear the Beef: Heat oil until shimmering, then sear beef in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side. Transfer to a plate after browning.
  3. Sauté the Onions: Add sliced onions to the same pot and cook for 5-7 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for additional 30 seconds.
  4. Thicken the Base: Sprinkle flour over the cooked onions, stirring constantly for about 1 minute.
  5. Deglaze with Beer: Pour in dark beer, stirring and scraping the bottom to deglaze the pot. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
  6. Combine Ingredients: Return the beef to the pot and add beef broth, brown sugar, vinegar, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir until combined.
  7. Simmer the Stew: Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat, and cook for about 1.5 hours. Stir occasionally.
  8. Final Adjustments: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Let it rest for 15 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 4mg

Notes

For best results, sear the beef in batches and don't skip the apple cider vinegar as it enhances tenderness. Let the stew rest off heat for flavor melding.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!