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Mary Berry Irish Stew Recipe

Mary Berry Irish Stew
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Mary Berry’s Irish Stew is a traditional one-pot dish made with lamb, potatoes, onions, and carrots, simmered in a rich broth until the meat is tender and the flavors are well-developed. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the natural flavors to shine, making it a beloved classic in Irish cuisine.

Ingredients

  • Lamb Shoulder (800g, cut into chunks) – The classic meat choice for a rich, tender texture.
  • Potatoes (4 medium, peeled and sliced thickly) – Adds heartiness to the stew.
  • Onions (2, sliced) – Provides a natural sweetness.
  • Carrots (3, peeled and chopped) – Adds color and sweetness.
  • Leeks (1, sliced, optional) – Adds extra depth of flavor.
  • Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Enhances the richness.
  • Chicken or Lamb Stock (1 liter / 4 cups) – Forms the flavorful base of the stew.
  • Thyme (1 tsp, fresh or dried) – A key herb for depth.
  • Bay Leaves (2) – Infuses extra aroma.
  • Salt and Black Pepper (to taste) – Enhances overall seasoning.
  • Butter (2 tbsp) – For sautéing the onions.
  • Flour (1 tbsp, optional) – Helps thicken the stew.

Optional Additions

  • Parsnips (chopped, for extra sweetness)
  • Pearl Barley (50g, for added texture and thickness)
  • Guinness or Stout (½ cup, for a richer broth)

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the lamb

Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a little butter and sear the lamb chunks until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the onions and garlic

In the same pot, melt the remaining butter and sauté the sliced onions for 3-4 minutes until soft. Add the minced garlic and stir for another minute.

Step 3: Add the vegetables

Add the carrots, leeks, and potatoes to the pot, stirring to coat them with the flavors.

Step 4: Pour in the stock

Return the browned lamb to the pot. Pour in the stock, ensuring the meat and vegetables are submerged. Add the thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.

Step 5: Simmer the stew

Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the lamb is tender and the broth is rich.

Step 6: Adjust seasoning and serve

Taste the stew and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove the bay leaves before serving.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle into bowls and serve hot with crusty bread or traditional Irish soda bread.

Find it online: https://britishbakingrecipes.co.uk/mary-berry-irish-stew/