Sear the Beef and Cook the Bacon
Season the beef chunks with salt and pepper.
Heat vegetable oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Brown the beef in batches, then remove and set aside.
Cook the diced bacon until crispy, then set aside with the beef.
Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the sliced onions and sauté until soft and caramelized.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Build the Flavor Base
Mix in the tomato paste and stir well.
Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and cook for 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
Deglaze and Simmer
Pour in the Guinness, scraping the bottom of the pot to lift any browned bits.
Add Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and beef broth.
Return the beef and bacon to the pot, along with thyme sprigs.
Slow Cook to Perfection
Stir in the carrots and potatoes.
Cover and let simmer on low heat for about 2 hours until the beef is tender.
Final Touches and Serving
Remove the thyme sprigs.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.