How To Make Irish Stew
What is Irish Stew?
Irish stew is a classic, wholesome dish that has been enjoyed for generations. Made with simple ingredients like tender lamb or beef, potatoes, carrots, and flavourful seasonings, this stew is perfect for warming up on a chilly day. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or just craving a comforting meal, this traditional Irish stew recipe will satisfy your taste buds.
What To Serve with Irish Stew?
Irish stew pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some great options:
- Crusty Bread – Perfect for soaking up the flavourful broth.
- Irish Soda Bread – A traditional and slightly sweet bread that complements the stew well.
- Mashed Potatoes – For an extra hearty meal, serve the stew over creamy mashed potatoes.
- Steamed Green Vegetables – Such as cabbage, kale, or Brussels sprouts for added nutrition.
- Buttered Peas – A simple yet classic side that adds a touch of sweetness to the dish.
What Meat is in Irish Stew?
Traditional Irish stew is made using lamb, which provides a rich and hearty flavour. However, beef is also commonly used as an alternative. The slow cooking process allows the meat to become tender and infuse the broth with deep, savoury flavours.
What Cut of Lamb for Irish Stew?
For the best results, use lamb shoulder, neck, or shank as they contain connective tissue that breaks down during slow cooking, making the meat incredibly tender. These cuts also add extra depth to the stew’s flavour.
How To Thicken Irish Stew?
Traditional Irish stew naturally thickens with the simmering process and as the potatoes break down during cooking. However, if you prefer a thicker consistency, you can use flour to help. Before adding the stock, simply toss the meat chunks in 1-2 tablespoons of flour before browning them. This will create a slightly richer and heartier stew.
Why You’ll Love This Irish Stew
- Simple Ingredients – No fancy or hard-to-find ingredients, just wholesome, everyday pantry staples.
- Hearty & Nourishing – Packed with protein and veggies, this stew is a well-balanced meal.
- Full of Flavour – Slow simmering brings out the best in the ingredients, creating a rich and savoury broth.
Whether you’re looking for a cosy winter meal or a traditional dish to celebrate Irish heritage, this stew is a must-try. Give it a go and enjoy the comforting taste of home-cooked Irish goodness!
Shopping list
- 500g lamb (or beef), cut into chunks
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped into chunks
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1000ml beef or vegetable stock
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Method
Brown the Meat:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium high heat. Add the lamb or beef chunks in batches to avoid overcrowding, and brown them on all sides. Once browned, remove the meat and set it aside.
Cook the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. Then, add the sliced carrots and chopped potatoes, cooking for another 5 minutes while stirring occasionally.
Add Stocks and Seasonings:
Return the browned meat to the pot. Pour in the beef or vegetable stock and add the dried thyme, bay leaf, salt and pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.
Let it Simmer:
Once the stew reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow it to simmer for about 1.5 hours, or until the meat is tender and the vegetables are soft. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking.
Serve and Enjoy:
Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for extra flavour and colour. Pair it with crusty bread for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Directions
Brown the Meat:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium high heat. Add the lamb or beef chunks in batches to avoid overcrowding, and brown them on all sides. Once browned, remove the meat and set it aside.
Cook the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. Then, add the sliced carrots and chopped potatoes, cooking for another 5 minutes while stirring occasionally.
Add Stocks and Seasonings:
Return the browned meat to the pot. Pour in the beef or vegetable stock and add the dried thyme, bay leaf, salt and pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.
Let it Simmer:
Once the stew reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow it to simmer for about 1.5 hours, or until the meat is tender and the vegetables are soft. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking.
Serve and Enjoy:
Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for extra flavour and colour. Pair it with crusty bread for a truly satisfying meal.