World Flavors Cookbook

Irish Stew

Ireland's defining dish — a simple, soul-warming stew of lamb (or mutton), potatoes, onions, and carrots, slowly simmered until the potatoes break down and thicken the broth naturally.

Cuisine: Ireland

Ingredients

• 1kg lamb shoulder, cubed
• 1kg potatoes, peeled and thickly sliced
• 3 onions, sliced
• 3 carrots, chunked
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1L lamb or chicken stock
• Salt and white pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Layer lamb, potatoes, onions, and carrots in a heavy pot, seasoning each layer.
2. Add thyme sprigs and pour stock to cover.
3. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook gently for 2–2.5 hours.
4. Some potatoes will dissolve to thicken the stew; others remain whole.
5. Adjust seasoning. Serve in deep bowls with fresh parsley and soda bread.