Irish Stew Recipe

Irish Stew is a time-honored dish known for its simplicity, heartiness, and rich, comforting flavors. Traditionally made with lamb or mutton, root vegetables, and a deeply savory broth, it’s a rustic one-pot meal that warms you from the inside out — perfect for cold weather or St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and comforting with a rich, slow-simmered flavor
• One-pot meal — minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction
• Traditional Irish fare — a taste of heritage and history
• Versatile — adapt with your choice of meat or vegetables
• Perfect for leftovers — even better the next day
• Meal prep-friendly — can be made ahead
• Nutritious — loaded with protein and vegetables
• No fancy ingredients needed
• Freezer-friendly
• Simple, rustic, and satisfying

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Lamb shoulder or stew meat, cut into chunks
• Yellow potatoes (waxy), peeled and cut into chunks
• Carrots, peeled and sliced
• Onions, roughly chopped
• Parsnips (optional), peeled and sliced
• Celery (optional), sliced
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Fresh thyme
• Bay leaves
• Beef or lamb stock
• Salt and black pepper
• Olive oil or butter
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

this recipe

1. Brown the lamb: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high. Brown the lamb on all sides in batches, then remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the aromatics: In the same pot, sauté onions, garlic, and celery until softened.
3. Deglaze and build the stew: Return the lamb to the pot. Add carrots, parsnips, potatoes, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Pour in enough stock to just cover the ingredients.
4. Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the lamb is fork-tender and the vegetables are soft.
5. Adjust and finish: Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Beef Stew: Substitute lamb with stewing beef if preferred.
• Guinness Twist: Add ½ cup of Guinness stout for deeper flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit meat and use mushrooms and vegetable broth.
• Add Barley: Stir in pearl barley for a thicker, grain-based stew.
• Root Veggies Galore: Turnips, rutabagas, or sweet potatoes can also be added.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cooled stew in portions for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm over medium heat on the stove or microwave in a covered bowl.
• Tip: The flavors improve after a day, making leftovers even tastier.

FAQs

What meat is traditionally used in Irish stew?

Lamb or mutton is the traditional choice, though beef is commonly used today as well.

Can I make Irish stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the meat first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.

Is it necessary to brown the meat?

Browning adds rich flavor, but you can skip it if you’re short on time — the stew will still be tasty.

What kind of potatoes should I use?

Waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds hold their shape well and add creaminess to the stew.

Can I thicken the stew?

Yes, mash some of the potatoes in the pot or stir in a slurry of flour and water.

Can I add peas or other vegetables?

Absolutely. Frozen peas, green beans, or kale can be stirred in near the end.

What’s the difference between Irish and regular beef stew?

Irish stew traditionally uses lamb and a simpler broth with fewer ingredients and no wine or tomato paste.

Can I use water instead of stock?

Yes, but stock adds more depth of flavor. Add more herbs and salt if using water.

Is Irish stew gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free stock and don’t add flour to thicken.

Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day.

Conclusion

Irish Stew is more than just a dish — it’s a warm embrace in a bowl. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or celebrating your Irish roots, this stew delivers classic flavors that satisfy deeply. With its hearty ingredients and soul-soothing broth, it’s a recipe worth keeping in your regular rotation.

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