Guinness Beef Stew

ACTIVE 30 MIN - TOTAL 5 HR 30 MIN OR 8 HR 30 MIN

Ingredients:
2 tsp olive oil
2 1/2 lb lean beef stew meat, cut into 2-in. pieces
Kosher salt and pepper
2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups stout beer (such as Guinness Extra Stout)
1 6-oz. can tomato paste
3 medium onions, cut into 1-in. wedges
4 cloves garlic, smashed
8 sprigs fresh thyme, tied together
1 small rutabaga (about 1 lb.) cut into 1-in. pieces
4 medium carrots, cut into 2-in. pieces
2 medium parsnips, cut into 1-in. pieces
1/2 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
Mashed potatoes, for serving

Directions:
1) Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Season the beef with 1/2 tsp each salt and pepper. Working in batches, cook beef, turning occasionally, until browned, 4 to 5 minutes; transfer to a plate and sprinkle with the flour.
2) In a 5- to 6-qt slow cooker, whisk together the beer, tomato paste and 1/4 tsp each salt and pepper. Add the onions, garlic, thyme and the beef and any juices, and toss to combine. Scatter the rutabaga, carrots an parsnips on top. Cook, covered, until the beef and vegetables are tender and the sauce slightly thickened, 7 to 8 hours on low or 5 to 6 hours on high. Gently fold in the parsley and serve with mashed potatoes, if desired.

Serves 6