Traditional Irish Stew Recipe

There's nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of Irish stew on a chilly day. This traditional Irish stew recipe, rich with tender lamb and wholesome vegetables, brings a piece of Ireland to your table. Whether you're enjoying it as a cozy family meal or sharing it with friends, this traditional recipe is sure to please.

History

Irish stew is often hailed as Ireland's national dish, with roots stretching back to the early 1800s. Originally crafted from mutton, potatoes, and onions, it showcased the ingenuity of Irish cooks who relied on simple, available ingredients. Over time, lamb has become more popular, but the essence of the stew remains the same—a humble, yet flavorful celebration of Irish heritage.

Serving Suggestions

For the perfect meal, serve this traditional Irish stew with a slice of crusty soda bread to soak up the delicious broth. A side of buttered cabbage or colcannon (mashed potatoes with kale) complements the stew beautifully. For a touch of freshness, garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and serve alongside a crisp green salad.

Storing Instructions

To store any leftovers, let the stew cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days. If you wish to keep it longer, you can freeze the stew in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, place the stew in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it is heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes, or until hot. If the stew thickens too much, simply add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Conclusion

We hope this traditional Irish stew brings warmth and joy to your table. We'd love to hear how this recipe worked for you! Share your experiences and any tweaks you made in the comments below. Don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more comforting recipes and culinary tips.

For more delicious recipes like this one, be sure to check out our collection of comforting dishes that will warm your heart and home!

How to Make Traditional Irish Stew

Prep Time 15 mins

Cook Time 150 mins

Total Time 2 hrs 45 mins

Cooking Method: Baking and Stovetop, Simmering

Cuisine: Irish

Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Beginner

Cooking Temp: 160 C

Servings: 6

Calories: 497 kcal per serving

Best Season: Winter

Dietary: dairy-free, Gluten-Free, Nut-Free

Description

This traditional Irish stew is the perfect comfort food for chilly days. Made with tender lamb, hearty root vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, it's a timeless dish that brings warmth and satisfaction. Simple ingredients come together to create a stew that's both nourishing and delicious, perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
1 kg lamb shoulder, cut into 4 cm cubes
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 leeks, finely sliced
3 large 3 carrots, peeled and cut into 1 cm rounds
2 parsnips peeled and cut into 1 cm rounds
1 kg potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks (use a mix of waxy and starchy potatoes)
750 ml beef broth
1 bay leaf
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1
Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F).
2
Prepare the Lamb: Pat the lamb dry with paper towels.
3
Brown the Lamb: Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the lamb in batches, browning on all sides. Remove and set aside.
4
Cook the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the onion and leeks. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the carrots and parsnips, cooking for another 5 minutes.
5
Combine Ingredients: Return the lamb to the pot. Add the potatoes, beef broth, bay leaf, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
6
Simmer the Stew: Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven. Cook for 2 hours, or until the lamb is tender.
7
Thicken the Stew (Optional): If a thicker consistency is desired, remove the lid and continue cooking for an additional 20-30 minutes.
8
Serve: Remove the bay leaf. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 497kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 18.7g29%
Saturated Fat 7.5g38%
Cholesterol 132mg44%
Sodium 948mg40%
Potassium 1193mg35%
Total Carbohydrate 35.7g12%
Dietary Fiber 5g20%
Sugars 6.7g
Protein 46g92%

Vitamin A 10035 IU
Vitamin C 21 mg
Calcium 79 mg
Iron 4.3 mg
Vitamin E 1.7 IU

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

For the best flavour, use a mix of waxy and starchy potatoes.
If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the potatoes before serving.
This stew is even more delicious the next day, as the flavours have time to meld together.
Enjoy with a slice of soda bread for an authentic Irish experience.

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Read it online: https://greatfood.ie/recipe/traditional-irish-stew-recipe/

Fiona O'Sullivan

Fiona O'Sullivan is the passionate editor of Great Food Ireland, a popular blog dedicated to celebrating traditional Irish cuisine and culinary heritage. With a rich background in food writing and a deep love for Ireland's gastronomic culture, Fiona brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to her role. She curates authentic recipes, shares culinary stories, and explores the vibrant food scene across Ireland. Fiona's dedication to promoting Irish food traditions has made Great Food Ireland a beloved resource for food enthusiasts around the world.