Irish Stew recipe
Embrace the flavors of the Emerald Isle with Irish Stew! This comforting dish features tender chunks of lamb or beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions simmered in a savory broth until everything is melt-in-your-mouth delicious. It’s a hearty and wholesome meal that’s perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any cozy evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 pounds stewing beef, cut into chunks
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup Guinness beer (optional)
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 bay leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chunks of stewing beef and brown them on all sides, working in batches if necessary. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
2. Saute the vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add the sliced carrots and diced potatoes to the pot, and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Deglaze the pot: Pour in the Guinness beer (if using), and scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to loosen any browned bits. Let the beer simmer for a minute or two to reduce slightly.
4. Add the remaining ingredients: Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, then add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Simmer the stew: Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Stir occasionally, and add more broth if needed to reach your desired consistency.
6. Serve: Once the stew is ready, discard the bay leaves. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Ladle the Irish stew into bowls, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Enjoy your hearty and comforting Irish Stew, perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day!
