Belgian Beef Beer Stew (Carbonnade Flamande) — Irresistible Comfort Food!

beef chuck

🥗Healthier: lean beef

💰Cheaper: pork shoulder

Lean beef reduces fat content while pork shoulder is often less expensive.

beer

🥗Healthier: non-alcoholic beer

💰Cheaper: beef broth

Non-alcoholic beer maintains flavor without alcohol, and broth is a cost-effective substitute.

brown sugar

🥗Healthier: honey

💰Cheaper: white sugar

Honey provides a natural sweetness, while white sugar is a budget-friendly alternative.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil offers heart-healthy fats, and margarine is often less expensive.

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Add diced beef and sear until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Remove beef and set aside; add butter to the pot.

Sauté chopped onions, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Return beef to the pot and sprinkle with salt and black pepper.

Add beer and scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze.

Stir in beef broth, mustard, thyme, bay leaves, and brown sugar.

Bring to a simmer, then cover and reduce heat to low.

Cook for 1.5 to 2 hours until beef is tender, stirring occasionally.

Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and vinegar to taste.

Serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: