Traditional Irish Stew Recipe: Hearty and Delicious

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs (700g) lamb or beef, cut into chunks
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 parsnips, peeled and sliced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cups (1 liter) beef or lamb stock
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Brown the Meat:
   Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chunks of lamb or beef and brown on all sides for about 5–7 minutes. Once browned, remove the meat and set it aside.
   
2. Sauté Vegetables:
   In the same pot, add the chopped onions and garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
   
3. Simmer the Stew:
   Return the browned meat to the pot, then add the stock, thyme, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
4. Add Vegetables:
   After an hour, add the potatoes, carrots, and parsnips to the pot. Stir everything gently, cover, and continue to simmer for another 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Final Touches:
   Remove the bay leaf and check the seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley just before serving.
   

Serving:
Serve your Irish stew hot with some crusty bread or Irish soda bread on the side to soak up the delicious broth.