Guinness Chili for Two Recipe

Cook Time: 90 minutes

This recipe is designed to yield its original portion. Ingredients have been adjusted for scaling, but keep in mind that cooking times remain the same and not all recipes scale perfectly.

Yield: 2 servings

Ingredients

• 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
• 1/4 cup fresh 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)
• 1 can (5 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 1/2 cups beef broth
• Sliced green onion and cilantro for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 325F (165C). Heat olive oil in a heavy, oven-safe pot over medium heat.
2. Add bacon and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden but not fully crisp.
3. Season beef cubes with salt and pepper. Place flour in a shallow dish and dredge beef, shaking off excess. Add to the pot and brown the beef on all sides in the bacon fat, mixing in the bacon.
4. Deglaze the pot with 1/2 cup beef broth, scraping the bottom to loosen any browned bits.
5. Add onion and garlic. Cook, stirring, until onion is soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.
6. Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, oregano, cumin, paprika, and coriander, coating the beef and onions with spices.
7. Pour in the stout, scraping up any bits stuck to the pot. Add tomato sauce and remaining broth. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Bring mixture to a boil.
8. Transfer the uncovered pot to the oven. Bake for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes to prevent sticking. Add a splash of broth or water if the chili becomes too thick.
9. Once the beef is tender and the chili has thickened, remove from oven. Garnish each serving with green onion and fresh cilantro leaves.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 1014
• Total Fat: 37g (48%)
• Saturated Fat: 12g (60%)
• Cholesterol: 342mg (114%)
• Sodium: 2082mg (91%)
• Total Carbohydrate: 44g (16%)
• Dietary Fiber: 7g (25%)
• Total Sugars: 8g
• Protein: 122g (244%)
• Vitamin C: 16mg (18%)
• Calcium: 155mg (12%)
• Iron: 16mg (90%)
• Potassium: 2077mg (44%)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your values may vary depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient data may not be available for all ingredients. Values are estimated based on available information. If you have dietary restrictions, consult your doctor or dietitian before preparing.

The Story Behind Guinness Chili

Guinness chili is a creative twist on traditional chili, combining the hearty flavors of classic American stew with the distinct taste of Irish stout. This culinary fusion likely emerged in the United States, where cooks often experiment with global ingredients to elevate familiar dishes. Using Guinness beer adds a rich, slightly bitter depth, enhancing the beefs savory profile while introducing subtle roasted malt notes. Though chili has its roots in Texan and Mexican cuisine, this variation reflects a modern, cross-cultural approach to comfort food.

Regional Variations and Characteristics

While classic chili recipes are typically associated with the American Southwest, Guinness chili carries a unique regional signature influenced by Irish ingredients. In Ireland and Irish-American communities, stews frequently incorporate stout or porter, giving dishes a robust, slightly sweet complexity. In the U.S., particularly in cities with large Irish-American populations, Guinness chili is often prepared with tender beef cubes and slow-cooked to achieve a rich, stew-like consistency. Some versions may include beans, though purists may leave them out to highlight the beer-infused flavor.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional chili con carne, which often relies heavily on chili powders, tomatoes, and sometimes beans, Guinness chili is distinguished by the inclusion of stout beer as a primary liquid. This results in a darker, thicker sauce with a slightly caramelized undertone. The addition of spices like smoked paprika, cumin, and coriander, balanced with the bitterness of the stout, sets it apart from simpler, spicier Tex-Mex styles. Compared to Irish beef stew, Guinness chili incorporates chili-specific spices, making it a hybrid of two comfort food traditions.

Where Guinness Chili is Typically Served

This dish is commonly enjoyed in intimate settings, such as cozy dinners at home, gastropubs, or small Irish-themed restaurants. Its often served during cooler months due to its hearty nature, making it ideal for fall or winter meals. While some chefs present it over rice or with cornbread, many prefer it straight from the oven in a deep bowl, garnished with fresh cilantro and green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

Interesting Facts

• The use of Guinness in cooking extends beyond chili; its popular in marinades, stews, and even desserts like chocolate stout cake.
• Guinness chilis flavor improves with time, making leftovers particularly rich and satisfying.
• In Ireland, adding stout to meat dishes is a long-standing tradition, emphasizing depth and richness without additional fats.
• Some chefs experiment with small amounts of dark chocolate or espresso to mimic the bitterness of Guinness if the beer is unavailable.
• Though this recipe serves two, it demonstrates the flexibility of chili recipes, as scaling up allows for communal gatherings without sacrificing flavor.

FAQ about Guinness Chili for Two Recipe