Irish Stew: A Hearty Lamb Stew

Warm up with a traditional Irish Stew, a hearty and comforting dish perfect for cold days. This lamb stew is rich with tender meat, hearty vegetables, and a flavorful broth that brings everything together. It’s a classic recipe that’s easy to prepare and ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Let’s create this delicious, soul-warming meal!

Ingredients

For the Stew:

• 2 pounds lamb shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the Lamb:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
   • Add the lamb cubes and brown them on all sides. Remove the lamb and set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
   • In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Combine Ingredients:
   • Return the browned lamb to the pot.
   • Add the chopped carrots and potatoes, stirring to combine.
4. Simmer the Stew:
   • Pour in the beef broth and water.
   • Add the thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
   • Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the lamb is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
5. Finish and Serve:
   • Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
   • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

How to Prepare

The secret to a perfect Irish Stew lies in the slow cooking process, which allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Browning the lamb enhances its flavor, while the combination of thyme and rosemary adds a wonderful aroma and taste to the broth. Serve this stew with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth, making it a complete and satisfying meal.

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 2 hours
• Total time: About 2 hours and 20 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves 6-8 people.

FAQs

• Can I use a different cut of lamb? Yes, you can use lamb neck or shank for a more economical option, but ensure it’s well-trimmed and cubed.
• Can I make this stew in a slow cooker? Absolutely! After browning the lamb and sautéing the onions and garlic, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
• Can I freeze the stew? Yes, this stew freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store it in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
• What can I serve with Irish Stew? A side of Irish soda bread or a simple green salad pairs wonderfully with this hearty stew.
• Can I add other vegetables? Definitely! Parsnips, turnips, or celery make great additions to this stew. Adjust the cooking time as needed for any added vegetables.