
This hearty Irish lamb stew is a comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings. The tender chunks of lamb, combined with flavorful vegetables, create a rich and satisfying meal that will warm you from the inside out. It’s a traditional recipe that brings a taste of Ireland to your table.
When preparing this dish, you might need to visit the supermarket for a few key ingredients. Lamb shoulder is not always a staple in every household, so make sure to check the meat section. Additionally, fresh parsley is essential for garnishing and adding a burst of freshness to the stew.
Ingredients for Irish Lamb Stew Recipe
Lamb shoulder: Tender and flavorful, this cut of meat is perfect for slow-cooking in stews.
Beef broth: Adds depth and richness to the stew’s base.
Onion: Provides a savory foundation and enhances the overall flavor.
Carrots: Adds sweetness and a slight crunch to the stew.
Potatoes: Makes the stew hearty and filling.
Garlic: Infuses the stew with a robust, aromatic flavor.
Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and warmth.
Olive oil: Used for browning the lamb and sautéing the vegetables.
Parsley: Freshens up the dish and adds a pop of color.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When browning the lamb chunks, make sure not to overcrowd the pot. Overcrowding can cause the meat to steam rather than brown, which affects the flavor and texture of the stew. Brown the meat in batches if necessary to ensure each piece gets a nice, caramelized exterior. This step is crucial for developing a rich, deep flavor in your Irish lamb stew.
Suggested Side Dishes
Colcannon: Imagine a creamy blend of mashed potatoes and cabbage, infused with a hint of butter and scallions. This traditional Irish side dish will add a comforting, velvety texture to your Irish Lamb Stew.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: Picture Brussels sprouts roasted to perfection, their edges caramelized and crispy, mingling with savory bacon. The smoky, salty notes will complement the rich flavors of your stew beautifully.
Irish Soda Bread: A warm, freshly baked Irish soda bread with a golden crust and a tender crumb. The subtle sweetness and slight tang from the buttermilk make it an ideal partner to soak up the hearty broth of your Irish Lamb Stew.
Apple and Fennel Salad: A refreshing salad featuring crisp apples and aromatic fennel, tossed in a light citrus vinaigrette. This vibrant side dish provides a delightful contrast to the rich, savory notes of your stew.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Tender carrots glazed with a luscious honey and butter mixture, sprinkled with a touch of thyme. These sweet and savory morsels will add a burst of color and flavor to your Irish Lamb Stew.
Alternative Ingredients
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Lamb shoulder – Substitute with beef chuck: Beef chuck is a good alternative as it has a similar texture and flavor profile when slow-cooked.
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Beef broth – Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth can be used if you prefer a lighter flavor, though it will slightly alter the taste of the stew.
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Onion – Substitute with leek: Leeks provide a milder, sweeter flavor compared to onions and can add a different dimension to the stew.
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Carrots – Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a similar texture to carrots but offer a slightly sweeter and nuttier flavor.
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Potatoes – Substitute with sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes add a different flavor and a bit of sweetness to the stew, while still providing a hearty texture.
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Garlic – Substitute with shallots: Shallots can provide a milder, more nuanced flavor compared to garlic.
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Salt – Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a depth of umami flavor while still providing the necessary saltiness.
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Black pepper – Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a slightly different heat profile and can add a subtle complexity to the stew.
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Olive oil – Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used for a slightly different flavor and is also a healthy fat option.
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Fresh parsley – Substitute with fresh cilantro: Fresh cilantro can provide a different but equally fresh and vibrant flavor to the stew.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Dish
Hearty Beef Stew: Dive into a comforting bowl of hearty beef stew that’s brimming with tender chunks of beef, potatoes, and carrots. This soul-warming dish is perfect for a cozy night in.
Chicken and Vegetable Stew: Savor the flavors of chicken and a medley of vegetables in this wholesome stew. It’s a nutritious and delicious option for a family dinner.
Pork and Apple Stew: Experience the delightful combination of pork and apples in this unique stew. The sweetness of the apples perfectly complements the savory pork, creating a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful.
Vegetable Lentil Stew: Enjoy a hearty and healthy vegetable lentil stew packed with lentils, tomatoes, and a variety of vegetables. This vegetarian option is both filling and nutritious.
Seafood Chowder: Indulge in a creamy seafood chowder loaded with shrimp, clams, and potatoes. This rich and flavorful dish brings the taste of the sea right to your table.
How to Store or Freeze This Recipe
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Allow the Irish lamb stew to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can lead to a watery stew.
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Transfer the cooled stew into airtight containers. For easy portioning, consider using individual serving-sized containers.
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If you plan to consume the stew within a few days, store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
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For longer storage, place the airtight containers in the freezer. The lamb stew can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its rich flavor and texture.
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When ready to enjoy, thaw the stew in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the integrity of the vegetables and meat.
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Reheat the stew gently on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent sticking. If the stew appears too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to reach the desired consistency.
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Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Use a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
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Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to revive its vibrant appearance and fresh taste.
How to Reheat Leftovers
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Stovetop Method:
- Place the leftover Irish lamb stew in a pot.
- Add a splash of beef broth or water to maintain moisture.
- Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the lamb and vegetables are heated through.
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Oven Method:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the stew to an oven-safe dish and cover with foil.
- Bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until the stew is thoroughly heated.
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Microwave Method:
- Place the leftover stew in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap (leave a small vent).
- Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the stew is hot.
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Slow Cooker Method:
- Transfer the leftover stew to your slow cooker.
- Set to low heat and cook for 1-2 hours, or until the stew is warmed through.
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Sous Vide Method:
- Place the leftover stew in a vacuum-sealed bag or ziplock bag.
- Submerge the bag in a water bath set to 165°F (74°C).
- Heat for about 1 hour, ensuring the stew is evenly warmed.
Best Tools for This Recipe
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Large pot: Used for browning the lamb and simmering the stew to ensure even cooking and flavor melding.
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Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the ingredients without scratching the pot.
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Chef’s knife: Essential for chopping the onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes with precision.
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Cutting board: Provides a safe and stable surface for chopping all the vegetables and lamb.
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Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the salt, pepper, and olive oil accurately.
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Measuring cup: Necessary for measuring the beef broth to ensure the correct liquid ratio.
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Tongs: Handy for turning and removing the lamb chunks while browning them.
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Ladle: Useful for serving the stew into bowls without spilling.
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Peeler: Used for peeling the carrots and potatoes efficiently.
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Garlic press: Makes mincing the garlic cloves quick and easy.
How to Save Time on Making This Recipe
Prep ingredients ahead: Chop onions, carrots, and potatoes the night before to save time.
Use a slow cooker: Transfer browned lamb and other ingredients to a slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half for an easy meal later.
Pre-minced garlic: Use pre-minced garlic to save chopping time.
Quick broth: Use store-bought beef broth instead of making your own.
One-pot method: Cook everything in one pot to reduce cleanup time.

Irish Lamb Stew Recipe
A hearty and traditional Irish lamb stew, perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs Lamb shoulder, cut into chunks
- 4 cups Beef broth
- 1 Large onion, chopped
- 3 Carrots, peeled and sliced
- 4 Potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper
- 2 tablespoon Olive oil
- 2 tablespoon Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
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1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
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2. Add the lamb chunks and brown on all sides.
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3. Remove the lamb and set aside.
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4. In the same pot, add the onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
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5. Return the lamb to the pot, add the beef broth, carrots, potatoes, salt, and pepper.
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6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 hours, or until the lamb is tender.
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7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutritional Value
Calories: 350kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 80mg | Sodium: 800mg | Potassium: 900mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 5000IU | Vitamin C: 20mg | Calcium: 60mg | Iron: 3mg
Suggested Appetizers and Desserts
Stuffed Mushrooms: Imagine portobello mushrooms filled with a delightful mixture of cream cheese, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes. The mushrooms are baked until the filling is creamy and the tops are golden brown. These bite-sized delights are perfect for starting a meal with a burst of flavor and texture. The earthiness of the mushrooms pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy filling, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Caprese Skewers: Visualize cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and mozzarella balls threaded onto skewers. Drizzle with a balsamic glaze and a touch of extra virgin olive oil. The juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella create a harmonious balance, while the basil adds a fresh, aromatic note. These skewers are not only visually appealing but also a delightful way to start any meal.
Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse that melts in your mouth. This decadent treat is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Serve it in elegant glasses and top with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. For an added touch of sophistication, garnish with fresh raspberries or a mint leaf. The smooth texture and intense chocolate flavor make this dessert a crowd-pleaser.
Pavlova: Delight your guests with a pavlova, a light and airy meringue-based dessert. The crisp exterior and soft, marshmallow-like interior create a delightful contrast. Top it with a generous layer of whipped cream and an assortment of fresh berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi. Drizzle with a tangy passion fruit sauce to elevate the flavors. This elegant dessert is perfect for any special occasion.
FAQ:
Can I use a different cut of lamb for this stew?
Yes, you can use other cuts like lamb leg or lamb shank. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if needed to ensure the meat becomes tender.
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 add other vegetables to this stew?
Sure thing! Feel free to add veggies like celery, parsnips, or peas. Just add them in at the same time as the carrots and potatoes.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the stew for up to 3 months.
Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?
Yes, you can substitute chicken broth if you prefer. It will slightly change the flavor, but it will still be delicious.
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