Lettie'S Irish Stew
A hearty Irish stew featuring tender beef, potatoes, carrots, and tomatoes, simmered with aromatic herbs, perfect for comforting family meals and cold evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put all the ingredients in a large soup kettle.
- Bring to a simmer over low heat.
- Cook for at least 6 hours or all day, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the soup bone and bay leaves.
- Adjust water to achieve desired thickness.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the beef cubes in a little oil before adding them to the kettle. You can substitute the beef with lamb for a more traditional Irish flavor. If you prefer a thicker stew, use less water or add a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking. Fresh herbs like thyme can enhance the dish, so feel free to experiment!
Serving Suggestions
Serve Lettie's Irish Stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Crusty bread or buttery rolls are perfect for soaking up the rich broth. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a side salad or roasted vegetables. This dish also goes well with a pint of stout or a hearty red wine.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the stew in portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist and heat slowly on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lettie'S Irish Stew contains roughly 2820 calories, with 66g protein, 598g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (596% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (341% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other vegetables in this stew?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for added depth. You can also incorporate frozen peas or corn in the last 30 minutes of cooking for a pop of color and sweetness.
How can I make this stew gluten-free?
To make this stew gluten-free, ensure that the beef cubes and any broth used are certified gluten-free. Avoid using flour for thickening; instead, you can simply reduce the liquid for a thicker consistency or use cornstarch as an alternative thickener.
How can I adapt this recipe for a slow cooker?
To adapt for a slow cooker, simply add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. Make sure to check the seasoning before serving, as flavors can intensify during slow cooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).