Hearty Irish Lamb and Barley Stew
This hearty Irish Lamb and Barley Stew is a delightful and wholesome meal, brimming with tender pieces of lamb shoulder slow-cooked to perfection. Infused with aromatic herbs and a robust broth, it features a generous mix of carrots, celery, leeks, and potatoes, along with the added goodness of pearl barley for a satisfying texture. It's a deeply flavorful and warming dish, ideal for gathering around the table.
Equipment
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1Pat the lamb cubes dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb in batches on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove browned lamb and set aside.
- 2Add carrots, celery, leek, and onion to the pot. Sauté over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3Return the browned lamb to the pot. Pour in the chicken or beef broth, ensuring it covers the ingredients. Stir in the rinsed pearl barley, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaves. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- 4After 1 hour, add the cubed potatoes to the stew. Continue to simmer, covered, for another 30-45 minutes, or until the lamb is very tender and the potatoes are cooked through. The barley should also be plump and tender.
- 5Remove the bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the hot stew into bowls, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve immediately.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Yes, this stew tastes even better the next day! Prepare it completely, let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What can I substitute for pearl barley?
If you don't have pearl barley, you can use a similar grain like farro or even omit it if you prefer a less thick stew. Adjust cooking time as needed for other grains.
Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add parsnips, turnips, or even some green peas in the last 10 minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrition.
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RECIPE BY
Leckere Rezepte
We are a team of passionate cooks and food enthusiasts.
