In hot pan, quickly brown the beef in 1 Tbsp of the butter.
Remove and saute the onions and carrots in the remaining butter until lightly browned.
Put the beef back in the pan and sprinkle with the flour.
Stir until everything is well coated and add the tomato paste, stirring for 1 minute.
Gradually stir in the Guinness and beef broth until the mixture is smooth and bring to a simmer.
Add the thyme and bay leaf.
Cover with a lid and cook at a low heat (barely simmering) for 1½ - 2 hours adding more liquid from time to time if necessary.
Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Sprinkle with chopped parsley to complete presentation.
Notes
Serve with crusty irish Soda Bread.Other ingredients may be added to stew during cooking such as potatoes, mushrooms and green beans......or dumplings!