Ah, Irish stew – a hearty, comforting dish that warms the soul. Whether you’re a native of the Emerald Isle or just a lover of traditional cuisine, there’s no denying the appeal of a rich, flavorful stew made with tender chunks of meat and a medley of root vegetables. In this article, we’ll take a trip to Ireland and explore 18 delicious Irish stew recipes that blend tradition with modern twists. From classic lamb stews to vegetarian options and even slow-cooker variations, there’s something for everyone in this collection of comforting dishes.
In the following pages, you’ll discover recipes like our Classic Irish Lamb Stew with Root Vegetables, which simmers tenderly all day long, and our Guinness Beef Stew with Carrots and Potatoes, which adds a depth of flavor from the iconic stout. We’ll also share some modern twists on traditional favorites, such as our Slow Cooker Irish Stew with Pearl Barley and Vegetarian Irish Stew with Mushrooms and Lentils.
So grab a spoon and join us on this culinary journey through Ireland’s rich stew-making heritage! Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, we’ve got you covered. Let the stews begin!
Classic Irish Lamb Stew with Root Vegetables
This hearty lamb stew is a staple of Irish cuisine, perfect for a cold winter’s night. Tender chunks of lamb are slow-cooked with root vegetables and aromatic spices to create a rich and flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium parsnips, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup lamb broth or beef broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the lamb pieces, then set aside.
3. Add more oil if needed, then sauté the onions and garlic until softened.
4. Add the carrots, parsnips, potatoes, broth, wine (if using), tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Return the lamb to the pot and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2-3 hours or until the lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Guinness Beef Stew with Carrots and Potatoes
A hearty and comforting stew that combines the richness of Guinness stout with tender beef, carrots, and potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef chuck or shank, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2-3 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup Guinness stout
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, brown the beef cubes over medium-high heat.
3. Add onions, garlic, carrots, potatoes, Guinness stout, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until the beef is tender.
5. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Slow Cooker Irish Stew with Pearl Barley
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting, slow-cooked stew made with tender beef, pearl barley, and vegetables. This hearty dish is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the beef, pearl barley, onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, beef broth, and thyme to a slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Vegetarian Irish Stew with Mushrooms and Lentils
Warm up with a hearty, comforting stew that’s perfect for any time of the year. This Vegetarian Irish Stew is packed with tender lentils, sautéed mushrooms, and a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button, cremini, or shiitake), sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, mushrooms, thyme, and cumin; cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the lentils and water or broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Irish Stew with Herbed Dumplings
Warm up with a classic Irish dish that’s perfect for a cozy evening. This comforting stew is filled with tender lamb, carrots, potatoes, and flavorful herbs, served with light and fluffy herbed dumplings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups lamb broth or beef broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Herbed Dumpling Ingredients (see below)
Herbed Dumpling Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 3/4 cup milk
– 1 egg, beaten
– Fresh parsley and thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the lamb over medium-high heat.
2. Add carrots, potatoes, onion, garlic, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Mix dumpling ingredients and drop spoonfuls onto the stew surface. Cover and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Lamb and Cabbage Irish Stew
A hearty and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of lamb and cabbage, this Irish stew is perfect for a cold winter’s night. With tender chunks of lamb and crisp vegetables, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or shanks, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head of cabbage, cored and chopped
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 cup lamb broth or beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the lamb and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the lamb from the pot and set aside.
4. Add the onion, garlic, cabbage, carrots, and celery to the pot.
5. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
6. Add the broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot.
7. Return the lamb to the pot and simmer until cooked through, about 30-40 minutes.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Instant Pot Irish Stew with Red Wine
Get cozy with this comforting Instant Pot Irish Stew, infused with the deep flavors of red wine.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 large celery stalk, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the potatoes, carrot, celery, garlic, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”.
5. Press the “MEAT/STEW” button or “MANUAL” mode and set the cooking time to 30 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes total, including natural pressure release
Traditional Irish Stew with Thyme and Parsley
This hearty stew is a staple of Irish cuisine, warm and comforting on a chilly day. This recipe combines tender lamb or beef with fresh herbs and root vegetables for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb or beef, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the lamb or beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the carrots, potatoes, onion, thyme, and flour. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 1/2 hours or until the meat is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Irish Stew with Sweet Potatoes and Kale
Warm up with this comforting twist on the classic Irish stew, featuring sweet potatoes and kale for added depth of flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, brown the beef over medium-high heat, then remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add sweet potatoes, kale, beef broth, water, and flour. Stir to combine.
5. Return beef to pot, cover, and transfer to preheated oven.
6. Simmer for 2-1/2 hours or until meat is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Beef and Guinness Stew with Irish Soda Bread
This rich and flavorful stew is a perfect representation of Ireland’s culinary heritage, featuring tender beef, dark stout beer, and a hint of sweetness from the Guinness. Paired with a warm slice of Irish Soda Bread, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
For the Stew:
– 2 pounds beef chuck or brisket, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Guinness stout beer
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Irish Soda Bread:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brown the beef in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Pour in Guinness, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until beef is tender.
5. Meanwhile, mix flour, buttermilk, and baking soda for the bread. Drop by spoonfuls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Dot with butter.
6. Bake bread at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve stew hot with a slice of warm Irish Soda Bread.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Lamb and Turnip Irish Stew
A hearty and comforting stew that combines the rich flavors of lamb with the sweetness of turnips, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 medium turnips, peeled and diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup lamb broth
– 1/4 cup Guinness stout (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, brown the lamb cubes over medium-high heat.
3. Add the turnips, garlic, onion, lamb broth, Guinness stout (if using), and thyme.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
6. Cook for 2-1/2 hours or until the lamb is tender and the turnips are caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Irish Stew with Rosemary and Garlic
A hearty and flavorful twist on the classic Irish stew, this recipe combines tender lamb, fresh rosemary, and pungent garlic for a savory dish perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cups lamb broth or beef broth
– 1 tsp tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat 2 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the lamb and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add the chopped onion, carrots, and potatoes. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Add the garlic, rosemary, lamb broth, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return the lamb to the pot and bring to a simmer.
7. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until the lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Slow-Roasted Irish Stew with Bacon
A hearty and comforting stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this slow-roasted Irish stew is infused with the rich flavor of crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup of beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
3. Remove the bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave the drippings in the pot.
4. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Add the beef cubes, potatoes, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
7. Cover the pot with a lid or foil and transfer it to the preheated oven.
8. Roast for 2 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Chunky Irish Stew with Leeks and Carrots
A hearty and comforting stew perfect for a cold winter’s night, this recipe combines tender chunks of beef, flavorful leeks, and sweet carrots in a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 medium leeks, chopped (white and light green parts only)
– 4 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the leeks, carrots, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over the mixture; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add the beef broth and water, whisking to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 2 hours or until the beef is tender.
Cook Time: 2 hours
Irish Stew with Buttered Parsnips
A classic Irish dish that warms the soul, this stew is a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup Irish stout beer (or beef broth)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2-3 parsnips, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat until browned on all sides.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the potatoes, stout beer (or broth), thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the beef is tender.
5. Meanwhile, butter the parsnip slices with melted butter and season with salt.
6. Serve the stew hot, accompanied by the buttered parsnips.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Spicy Irish Stew with Chorizo and Potatoes
A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional Irish stew, this recipe combines the spicy kick of chorizo sausage with the comfort of potatoes and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chorizo sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large carrot, peeled and diced
– 1 large celery stalk, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced chorizo and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the chorizo from the pot and set aside.
4. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the garlic, potatoes, carrot, and celery to the pot. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
7. Return the chorizo to the pot and simmer until the stew has thickened slightly, about 20-25 minutes.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Irish Stew with Cider and Apples
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of traditional Irish flavors and seasonal autumn ingredients, featuring tender lamb, crisp apples, and the warmth of cider.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1/2 cup diced fresh apples (Granny Smith or Braeburn work well)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 bay leaf
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown lamb on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add cider, apples, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return lamb to the pot; cover and simmer for 2-1/2 hours or until meat is tender.
6. Remove bay leaf and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Lamb and Barley Irish Stew with Fresh Herbs
A hearty and comforting stew that combines the rich flavors of lamb, barley, and fresh herbs for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, parsnips)
– 1 cup pearled barley
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the barley, broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Discover the warmth and comfort of Ireland’s national dish with these 18 hearty Irish stew recipes. From classic lamb stews to modern twists, this collection offers something for everyone. Try traditional recipes like Guinness Beef Stew or Classic Irish Lamb Stew, or venture into new territory with vegetarian options like Mushroom and Lentil Stew. Explore the versatility of Irish stews with slow cooker and Instant Pot variations, and elevate your meal with fresh herbs and aromatic spices. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, these recipes will guide you to create a delicious and satisfying stew that’s sure to become a family favorite.
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