Irish Stew with Havarti

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp (30 mL) butter
• 2 lbs (900 g) stewing beef cubes
• 1 large leek, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic
• 4 cups (1 L) different coloured carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces
• 2 cups (500 mL) parsnips, peeled and cut into 1-inch(2.5 cm) pieces
• 2 cups (500 mL) rutabaga, cut into 1-inch(2.5 cm) cubes
• 1 bottle (341 mL) of dark beer
• 2 cups (500 mL) low-sodium beef broth
• 2 cups (500 mL) water
• 4 - 5 sprigs of fresh thyme
• Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
• 7 oz (210 g) havarti cheese, finely diced
• 1 1/2 tbsp (22 mL) cornstarch

Instructions

1. In a large saucepan over high heat, melt butter and brown beef cubes. Add vegetables and cook 3–4 minutes, stirring constantly. Pour in beer, broth and water. Bring to a boil. Add sprigs of thyme and season with salt and pepper. Cover and cook on medium-low heat for 2 hours or until meat is tender.
2. Coat Havarti cheese with cornstarch and add to stew to make it thick and creamy.
3. Remove sprigs of thyme, adjust seasoning and serve.

Notes