Getting cozy on a chilly evening with a warm, comforting bowl of Irish stew is one of life’s greatest pleasures. This traditional dish has been warming hearts and bellies for generations, and its rich flavors and hearty texture make it a staple of Irish cuisine. From classic lamb stews to vegetarian twists and seafood variations, there’s an Irish stew recipe out there for everyone.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 different recipes that showcase the best of Ireland’s culinary heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for a new dinner idea, these recipes are sure to inspire and satisfy. So grab a spoon, get cozy, and let’s dive into the world of Irish stews!
Classic Irish Lamb Stew with Root Vegetables
This hearty stew is a staple of Irish cuisine, featuring tender lamb and a medley of root vegetables slow-cooked in a rich broth. Perfect for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup lamb broth or beef broth
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, brown the lamb in butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onion, carrots, potatoes, parsnip, and garlic; cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in flour; cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add broth, stirring to combine; bring to a boil.
6. Cover and transfer to the oven; simmer for 2-3 hours or until the lamb is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Guinness Beef Stew with Carrots and Potatoes
This rich and flavorful stew is perfect for a cozy night in, combining the deep flavors of Guinness stout with tender beef, crunchy vegetables, and creamy potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs beef chuck or brisket, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup Guinness stout
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes in batches, then set aside.
2. Add onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened.
3. Add carrots and potatoes; cook for 5 minutes.
4. Add Guinness stout, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return beef to the pot; bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours or until beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Slow Cooker Irish Stew with Pearl Barley
A hearty and comforting slow cooker recipe that combines the flavors of Ireland with the creamy texture of pearl barley. This stew is perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day when you need a warm and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, then transfer it to the slow cooker.
2. Add the sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, pearl barley, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the slow cooker.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Traditional Irish Stew with Mutton and Thyme
This hearty stew is a classic Irish comfort food, made with tender mutton, fresh thyme, and root vegetables. Perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mutton shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the mutton and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped carrots, potatoes, onion, garlic, and thyme. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until the mutton is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Vegetarian Irish Stew with Lentils and Kale
This recipe is a creative twist on the classic Irish stew, substituting lentils for meat and adding nutritious kale. The result is a rich, comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the lentils, broth, carrots, potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Stir in the chopped kale and cook until wilted.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Irish Stew with Cabbage and Parsley Dumplings
This traditional Irish stew is a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for a chilly evening. The addition of cabbage and parsley dumplings adds a delightful twist to this classic recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb or beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 egg, beaten
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the stew meat in butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the potatoes, cabbage, chicken broth, flour, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until the meat is tender.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the dumplings: In a bowl, whisk together the egg, parsley, and salt. Add the flour; stir until just combined.
6. Drop the dumpling mixture by spoonfuls onto the stew surface. Cover and simmer for an additional 15 minutes.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours
Rustic Irish Stew with Red Wine and Herbs
This hearty stew is a classic Irish comfort food, perfect for a chilly evening. The addition of red wine and fresh herbs gives it a rich and savory flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb or beef cubes
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of red wine
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the lamb or beef in a little bit of oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
4. Add the garlic, potatoes, red wine, chicken broth, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Simmer for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Instant Pot Irish Stew with Tender Lamb
This hearty, comforting dish is a twist on the classic Irish stew, using tender lamb instead of beef. The Instant Pot makes it easy to cook this flavorful stew with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until hot.
2. Add the lamb, potatoes, onion, garlic, beef broth, water, tomato paste, and thyme. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
4. Cook on High Pressure for 30 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40 minutes (including pressure release)
Irish Stew with Guinness and Brown Soda Bread
This classic Irish recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender lamb or beef, vegetables, and the rich flavor of Guinness stout. Serve it with a warm slice of brown soda bread for a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
For the stew:
– 1 lb lamb or beef cubes
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup Guinness stout
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
For the brown soda bread:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the lamb or beef in a little oil. Add onions, garlic, carrots, and potatoes.
3. Pour in Guinness stout and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until meat is tender.
4. For the bread, combine flours, baking powder, and salt. Stir in melted butter and buttermilk until a sticky dough forms.
5. Shape into a round loaf and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes (1 hour 30 minutes for the bread).
Hearty Irish Stew with Bacon and Caramelized Onions
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful stew, perfect for a chilly evening. The combination of tender lamb, crispy bacon, and sweet caramelized onions will leave you feeling cozy and satisfied.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of Guinness stout or beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped (optional)
– 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Cook bacon in a large Dutch oven over medium heat until crispy, then remove from pot.
3. Add onions to the pot and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
4. Add lamb, garlic, Guinness stout or broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Cover pot and transfer to preheated oven. Cook for 2-1/2 hours, or until lamb is tender.
6. If using carrots and potatoes, add them to the pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
7. Serve stew hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-1/2 hours
Gluten-Free Irish Stew with Sweet Potatoes
This hearty stew is a twist on the classic Irish dish, substituting sweet potatoes for traditional potatoes to add natural sweetness and creamy texture. Perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion, this gluten-free version is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 pound beef stew meat (or lamb, if preferred)
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup gluten-free beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, brown the beef in a little oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, sweet potatoes, carrots, and thyme; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Pour in broth and red wine (if using); bring to a boil.
5. Cover and transfer to preheated oven; cook for 2-1/2 hours or until beef is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Irish Stew with Rosemary and Garlic Mash
A hearty and comforting stew that combines tender lamb with aromatic rosemary and the creamy richness of garlic mash.
Ingredients:
For the Irish Stew:
– 1 lb lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup Guinness stout (optional)
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Garlic Mash:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the lamb in a little oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion, carrots, potatoes, garlic, beef broth, Guinness stout (if using), and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven. Simmer for 2-3 hours or until the lamb is tender.
5. While the stew cooks, prepare the Garlic Mash by boiling the potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with butter, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (stew), 15 minutes (mash)
Spicy Irish Stew with Chorizo and Peppers
This hearty stew combines the spicy kick of chorizo sausage with the sweetness of bell peppers, all wrapped up in a rich and flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless lamb or beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup chorizo sausage, sliced
– 2 medium bell peppers, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the lamb or beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chorizo sausage, bell peppers, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the meat is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Irish Stew with Buttered Parsnips and Turnips
This classic Irish dish is a staple of comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines tender lamb or beef with vegetables and potatoes in a rich broth, served alongside buttery roasted parsnips and turnips.
Ingredients:
For the stew:
– 1 pound lamb or beef, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the buttered parsnips and turnips:
– 2 medium-sized parsnips, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium-sized turnips, peeled and sliced
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the lamb or beef over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, flour, beef broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Meanwhile, toss the parsnips and turnips with butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
5. Serve the stew hot, accompanied by the roasted parsnips and turnips.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
One-Pot Irish Stew with Stout Beer
This rich and comforting stew is a perfect blend of tender lamb, crispy vegetables, and the deep flavor of stout beer. Perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large potato, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup stout beer (such as Guinness)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the carrots, potato, stout beer, beef broth, and thyme. Stir to combine.
5. Return the lamb to the pot, cover, and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Irish Stew with Herb-Infused Gravy
This hearty stew is a classic Irish dish that warms the soul, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. With tender lamb and vegetables in a rich gravy, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the lamb in butter until browned on all sides.
2. Add the onion, carrots, potatoes, and garlic; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add beef broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the meat is tender.
6. Stir in chopped rosemary.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional rosemary if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Slow-Roasted Irish Stew with Bone Broth
Experience the comforting warmth of a traditional Irish stew, slow-cooked to perfection in rich bone broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup bone broth (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, brown the beef cubes over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and cubed potatoes. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the bone broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
6. Roast for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
7. Remove from the oven and let it rest before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Irish Stew with Colcannon Topping
This classic Irish dish combines tender lamb and vegetables in a rich broth, topped with creamy colcannon (mashed potatoes with kale and onions). A perfect comfort food for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
For the stew:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or beef, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups beef broth
For the colcannon topping:
– 3-4 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh kale
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large pot, combine lamb, carrots, garlic, potato, flour, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Add beef broth and bring to a boil. Simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until meat is tender.
4. Meanwhile, boil potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with butter, kale, and scallions.
5. Serve stew hot, topped with colcannon.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (including simmer time)
Seafood Irish Stew with Mussels and Cod
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the freshness of mussels and cod with the warmth of Irish spices, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 1 pound cod fillet, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup Irish stout beer
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the mussels under cold water and set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onions, garlic, carrot, and potatoes in a little bit of oil until tender.
3. Add the cod pieces and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. Pour in the Irish stout beer and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the mussels are open and the cod is cooked through.
6. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Irish Stew with Honey-Glazed Carrots and Leeks
This hearty Irish stew gets a sweet twist with the addition of honey-glazed carrots and leeks. The perfect comfort food for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lamb or beef cubes
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup honey
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 leeks, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, brown the lamb or beef cubes in a little oil. Remove from heat.
3. Add flour, salt, and pepper to the pot; stir to combine.
4. Add beef broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, glaze carrots and leeks with honey and roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
6. Combine cooked stew and roasted vegetables; serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get cozy with these 20 hearty Irish stews that will warm your belly and soul! From classic lamb to vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone. Discover traditional recipes like Guinness Beef Stew and Slow Cooker Irish Stew with Pearl Barley, or try something new like Spicy Irish Stew with Chorizo and Peppers. Each recipe is a comforting blend of tender meat, root vegetables, and rich broth. Whether you’re looking for a slow-cooked comfort food or a quick weeknight meal, these Irish stews are sure to become a family favorite.