irish mutton stew recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best irish mutton stew recipe

I’ve always been a fan of hearty, comforting stews, and Irish Mutton Stew is one of my all-time favorites. This traditional dish has been a staple in Irish cuisine for centuries, and it’s easy to see why – the rich flavors and tender texture are a perfect combination.

I first tried this recipe at a family gathering, and it was love at first bite. The smell of slow-cooked lamb and vegetables wafting through the air is like a warm hug on a chilly day.

As I learned more about the recipe, I was fascinated by the history behind it – did you know that mutton was a staple meat in Ireland during the Great Famine? It’s no wonder this stew has endured as a beloved tradition.

When I make this recipe for my family, they can’t get enough of it – my kids devour it in seconds, and my husband asks for seconds (and sometimes thirds!) I love that this recipe is easy to scale up or down depending on the occasion – whether it’s a cozy night in or a big family gathering, this stew is always a crowd-pleaser.

But what really sets it apart is the health benefits – with its rich source of protein and fiber from the lamb and vegetables, this stew is not only delicious but also nutritious. As I simmer the pot on the stovetop, I feel like I’m cooking up more than just a meal – I’m creating memories with my loved ones.

And that’s what makes this recipe truly special.

Irish Mutton Stew

4.9 from 1695 votes

A hearty and comforting Irish mutton stew, slow-cooked with vegetables and herbs. This traditional stew is perfect for a cold day and serves 4 people.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time2 hours 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time2 hours 45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Stew

500g mutton, cut into chunks
2 medium onions, chopped
4 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
4 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
2 tbsp plain flour
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried thyme
2 tbsp olive oil
600ml beef stock

For the Garnish

2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2Add the mutton pieces and brown them on all sides.
3This should take about 5-7 minutes.
4Remove the mutton from the pot and set it aside.
5In the same pot, add the chopped onions and carrots.
6Cook them over medium heat until the onions are translucent and the carrots have softened slightly.
7This should take about 5-7 minutes.
8Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
9Sprinkle the flour over the onion and carrot mixture.
10Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly.
11Cook for 1-2 minutes.
12Add the salt, black pepper, and dried thyme.
13Stir well to combine.
14Pour in the beef stock and stir well to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
15Bring the mixture to a boil.
16Add the mutton back into the pot along with the chopped potatoes.
17Stir well to combine.
18Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer gently for 2 to 2 and a half hours.
19Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
20The mutton should be tender and easily pierced with a fork when done.
21Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
22Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
23Serve hot with crusty bread.

🔧Equipment

Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute lamb for mutton if preferred. For a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and add it to the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

I always say that Irish Mutton Stew is one of those recipes that’s perfect for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or just need a comforting meal after a long day. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how well it stores and reheats – simply let it cool completely before refrigerating or freezing it for later use.

When reheating, be sure to add some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to really bring out the flavors. And let’s not forget about serving ideas – try pairing this stew with some crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for an extra-special treat.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Irish Mutton Stew

Q: What is Irish Mutton Stew?

Irish Mutton Stew is a traditional Irish dish made with lamb or mutton, potatoes, carrots, onions, and sometimes pearl barley.

Q: What type of meat should I use for this recipe?

You can use either lamb or mutton for this recipe – lamb will give you a slightly sweeter flavor, while mutton will be heartier and more robust.

Q: Can I use beef instead of lamb?

No, beef won’t give you the same rich flavor as lamb or mutton.

Q: How long does this stew take to cook?

This stew typically takes around 2-3 hours to cook on the stovetop or 1 hour in the slow cooker.

Q: Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this stew ahead of time – simply refrigerate or freeze it until you’re ready to serve.

Similar Posts