Irish Stew

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irish Stew is a traditional, hearty dish filled with tender lamb or beef, earthy root vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth. This rustic stew is perfect for chilly nights, providing a comforting, filling meal. With its simple ingredients and robust flavors, it’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or just looking for a cozy meal, Irish Stew is always a great choice.

ingredients

this Recipe

• 1 lb lamb or beef stew meat, cut into chunks
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth or water
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 bay leaves
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

directions

1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Brown the lamb or beef stew meat in batches, ensuring each piece is nicely seared. Remove the meat and set it aside.
2. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
3. Return the browned meat to the pot and add the potatoes, carrots, beef broth, thyme, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 1.5-2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
5. Remove the bay leaves and discard them. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Servings and timing

• This recipe serves 4-6 people.
• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 1.5-2 hours
• Total time: 2-2.5 hours

Variations

• Substitute beef for lamb if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Add parsnips or turnips for extra flavor and depth.
• For a thicker stew, mash some of the potatoes in the broth towards the end of cooking.
• Add a splash of Guinness or red wine to the stew for added richness.

storage/reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a pot over medium heat, adding a little broth or water if needed to loosen the stew.
• This stew also freezes well. For freezing, cool the stew completely and store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken instead of lamb or beef?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs for a lighter version, though it will change the flavor slightly.

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the meat and sauté the onion and garlic first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until tender.

Do I have to peel the potatoes?
Peeling the potatoes is optional. Leaving the skins on will add texture and nutrients to the stew.

Is Irish Stew traditionally made with lamb?
Yes, traditional Irish stew is typically made with lamb, but beef is a common substitution.

Conclusion

Irish Stew is a comforting, classic dish that’s perfect for cozying up on cold nights. With its tender meat, hearty vegetables, and flavorful broth, it’s a dish that brings comfort and warmth to the table. Whether made with lamb or beef, it’s sure to be a favorite in your recipe rotation.

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