Experience the rich and robust flavor of this exceptional Guinness Lamb Stew with Vegetables. Combining tender lamb shoulder with a hearty mix of vegetables and the distinctive taste of Guinness, this stew is the perfect comfort food. It's slow-cooked to perfection, ensuring every spoonful is a delight to the senses.
Most of the ingredients in this recipe are quite straightforward and can be easily found in any supermarket. However, one key ingredient that might not be commonly found in your kitchen is Guinness. This Irish stout beer is renowned for its deep, malty flavor and is crucial for giving this stew its unique taste. If you aren't in the habit of keeping alcohol at home, do remember to pick it up from your local store.
Ingredients for Guinness Lamb Stew with Vegetables
Lamb shoulder: This is the star of the show. Lamb shoulder is tender, flavorful, and perfect for slow-cooking.
Yellow onions: They add a subtle sweetness and depth to the stew.
Garlic: A must-have ingredient for flavor enhancement.
Tomato paste: It thickens the stew and gives it a rich tomato flavor.
Guinness: This Irish stout beer is what makes this stew recipe unique. It adds richness and a deep, malty flavor to the stew.
Beef broth: The base for the stew, it adds a lot of flavors.
Carrots and potatoes: These are hearty vegetables that complement the lamb and soak up all the flavors in the stew.
Frozen green peas: They add color and freshness to the stew.
One reader, Edie Mazza says:
This Guinness lamb stew recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the meat is incredibly tender. The combination of Guinness and vegetables creates a perfect balance. It's a hearty and satisfying dish that's perfect for a cozy night in. Highly recommended!
Cooking Techniques for Guinness Lamb Stew
How to brown the lamb: Pat the lamb dry and season with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat one tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat until hot and shimmering. Brown the lamb in three batches, adding one more tablespoon of oil for each batch. Do not crowd the pan and let the meat develop a brown crust before turning with tongs. It should take 5-8 minutes per batch. Transfer the browned meat to a large bowl and set aside.
How to cook the onions and garlic: Add the onions, garlic, and 2 tablespoons of water to the pot. Cook until the onions are soft, stirring with a wooden spoon to scrape any brown bits from the bottom of the pan, about 5 minutes.
How to thicken the stew: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for a few minutes. Add the lamb with its juices back to the pan and sprinkle with flour. Stir with a wooden spoon until the flour is dissolved, 1-2 minutes.
How to simmer the stew: Add the Guinness, beef broth, water, bay leaf, rosemary sprig, and sugar. Stir with a wooden spoon to loosen any brown bits from the bottom of the pan and bring to a boil. Cover the pot with a lid, turn the heat down to low, and simmer for one hour and twenty minutes.
How to add the vegetables: Add the carrots and potatoes to the stew, then cover and continue simmering until the vegetables are cooked and the meat is very tender, 30-40 minutes. Be sure to stir a few times to prevent the vegetables from sticking to the bottom.
How to adjust seasoning: Remove the bay leaf and rosemary sprig, then taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If serving right away, add the frozen peas and cook until the peas are warmed through. Otherwise, let the stew cool, then cover and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Reheat gently on the stovetop and add the peas right before serving.
Make ahead: This stew can be made a day or two ahead of time and reheated gently on the stovetop. Just be sure to add the peas right before serving so they stay fresh. Also, the broth will thicken in the fridge, so it may be necessary to thin it with a bit of water (add it little by little).
Freezer-friendly instructions: The stew can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just omit the potatoes because they don’t freeze well. If you’d like, boil some potatoes separately when you defrost the stew and either add them into the stew or serve them on the side.
How To Make Guinness Lamb Stew with Vegetables
This Guinness lamb stew is made more tender and heartier by simmering in a malty beer and beef broth mix, for a delightfully belly-filling meal!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 3lbslamb shoulder,well-trimmed, cut into 1½-inch pieces
- 2tspsalt
- 1tspfreshly ground black pepper
- 3½tbspvegetable oil,or olive oil
- 2medium yellow onions,cut into 1½-inch
- 6garlic cloves,peeled, smashed
- 3tbsptomato paste
- ¼cupall-purpose flour
- 1cupGuinness
- 3cupsbeef broth
- 2cupswater,plus 2 tbsp more
- 1bay leaf
- 1small rosemary sprig,fresh
- 2tspsugar
- 4large carrots,peeled, cut into 1-inch chunks on diagonal
- 1lbwhite boiling potatoes,cut in half
- 1cupfrozen green peas
Instructions
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Pat the lamb dry and season with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat until hot and shimmering.
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Brown the lamb in three batches, adding 1 more tablespoon of oil for each batch. Do not crowd the pan and let the meat develop a brown crust before turning with tongs. It should take 5 to 8 minutes per batch.
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Transfer the browned meat to large bowl and set aside.
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Add the onions, garlic and 2 tablespoons of water to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the onions are soft, stirring with a wooden spoon to scrape any brown bits from the bottom of pan. Stir in the tomato paste and cook a few minutes more.
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Add the lamb with its juices back to the pan and sprinkle with flour. Stir with a wooden spoon for 1 to 2 minutes, until the flour is dissolved.
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Add the Guinness, beef broth, water, bay leaf, rosemary sprig and sugar. Stir with a wooden spoon to loosen any brown bits from the bottom of the pan and bring to a boil.
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Cover the pot with a lid, turn the heat down to low and simmer for 1 hour and 20 minutes.
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Add the carrots and potatoes to the stew, then cover and continue simmering for 30 to 40 minutes, until the vegetables are cooked and the meat is very tender.
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Remove the bay leaf and rosemary sprig, and then taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Add the frozen peas and cook until the peas are warmed through.
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Serve warm, and enjoy!
Recipe Notes
If not serving right away, let the stew cool, then cover and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Reheat gently on the stovetop and add the peas right before serving.
Nutrition
- Calories: 853.20kcal
- Fat: 57.40g
- Saturated Fat: 21.73g
- Trans Fat: 0.06g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 25.91g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.47g
- Carbohydrates: 35.90g
- Fiber: 5.61g
- Sugar: 8.86g
- Protein: 44.98g
- Cholesterol: 163.29mg
- Sodium: 1260.27mg
- Calcium: 103.33mg
- Potassium: 1447.40mg
- Iron: 5.56mg
- Vitamin A: 417.39µg
- Vitamin C: 32.98mg
Crucial Technique for Perfect Lamb Stew
When browning your lamb, make sure to give each piece enough space in the pan. Crowding the pan can cause the meat to steam instead of sear, preventing that desirable brown crust from forming. Also, resist the urge to move the pieces around too much. Let them sear undisturbed for a few minutes before turning them over. This will help develop a deep, rich flavor in your Guinness lamb stew.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Lamb Stew
Prepare the ingredients: Gather and prepare all the ingredients before starting to cook to streamline the process.
Use a pressure cooker: Consider using a pressure cooker to significantly reduce the cooking time for the lamb stew.
Chop vegetables in advance: Pre-chop the vegetables the night before and store them in the refrigerator to save time on the day of cooking.
Multi-task: While the stew is simmering, use that time to prepare side dishes or clean up the kitchen to save time later.
Invest in pre-cut vegetables: If time is a concern, consider purchasing pre-cut vegetables to minimize prep work.
Make a larger batch: Consider doubling the recipe and freezing the extra portions for future quick and easy meals.
Organize your workspace: Keep your cooking area organized and clean to work efficiently and avoid wasting time searching for utensils or ingredients.
Substitute Ingredients For Guinness Lamb Stew with Vegetables Recipe
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lamb shoulder – Substitute with beef chuck roast: Beef chuck roast has a similar rich and hearty flavor to lamb shoulder, and it becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked in the stew.
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Guinness – Substitute with stout beer: Any stout beer can be used as a substitute for Guinness to add depth and richness to the stew.
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beef broth – Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute to make the stew vegetarian-friendly while still adding depth of flavor.
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white boiling potatoes – Substitute with Yukon Gold potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes have a creamy texture and hold their shape well when cooked, making them a great substitute for white boiling potatoes in the stew.
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frozen green peas – Substitute with edamame: Edamame adds a pop of color and texture similar to green peas, and it's a great source of plant-based protein.
Presentation Ideas for Guinness Lamb Stew
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Elevate the plating: When presenting this Guinness lamb stew with vegetables, focus on creating a visually appealing plate. Use a wide, shallow bowl to showcase the stew and its vibrant colors.
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Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a pop of color and freshness to the dish by garnishing with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives just before serving.
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Consider the vessel: Opt for a beautiful, rustic ceramic bowl or a classic French soup tureen to serve the stew, adding an element of sophistication to the presentation.
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Artful arrangement of vegetables: Arrange the carrots and potatoes in an artful manner, ensuring they are visible and add to the overall aesthetic of the dish.
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Attention to detail: Wipe the edges of the bowl clean to ensure a pristine presentation, demonstrating care and attention to detail.
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Complementary side: Consider serving a slice of warm, crusty bread on the side, adding a delightful element to the overall dining experience.
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Delicate placement of peas: When adding the frozen green peas to the stew, delicately place them on top, ensuring they maintain their vibrant green color and add a touch of elegance to the dish.
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Enhance with a drizzle: Just before serving, consider drizzling a small amount of extra virgin olive oil over the stew to add a luxurious sheen and depth of flavor.
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Attention to temperature: Ensure the stew is served piping hot, creating a sensory experience that enhances the flavors and aromas of the dish.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Lamb Stew
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Dutch oven or heavy pot: Ideal for browning the lamb and simmering the stew, providing even heat distribution and retention.
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Tongs: Used for turning and handling the browned lamb pieces without piercing or damaging the meat.
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Wooden spoon: Essential for stirring and scraping the brown bits from the bottom of the pan, ensuring flavorful incorporation into the stew.
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Lid: Required for covering the pot during simmering, allowing the flavors to meld and the meat to tenderize.
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Large bowl: Used for temporarily holding the browned meat before adding it back to the pot.
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Vegetable peeler: Necessary for peeling the carrots and potatoes before adding them to the stew.
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Knife: Used for chopping and preparing the vegetables and meat.
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Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring the ingredients, ensuring the perfect balance of flavors in the stew.
Storing and Freezing Leftover Lamb Stew
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Let the stew cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator or freezer. This will prevent the formation of harmful bacteria and ensure that the flavors meld together beautifully.
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If you plan to enjoy the lamb stew within the next 3-4 days, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to indulge, gently reheat the stew on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
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For longer storage, the freezer is your best friend. Transfer the cooled stew to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion. Label the containers with the date and contents, so you can easily keep track of your culinary creations.
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If you opt for freezer bags, remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn. Lay the bags flat in the freezer for efficient storage and quicker thawing later on.
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When freezing the stew, it's best to omit the potatoes, as they don't tend to freeze well and can become grainy or mushy upon thawing. Instead, boil some fresh potatoes separately when you're ready to enjoy the stew.
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The Guinness lamb stew can be frozen for up to 3 months, allowing you to savor the rich, comforting flavors long after you've made the initial batch.
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To thaw the frozen stew, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator the night before you plan to serve it. This gradual thawing process will help maintain the texture and quality of the meat and vegetables.
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Once thawed, reheat the stew gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the consistency seems a bit thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to thin it out to your desired level.
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If you've omitted the potatoes during the freezing process, now is the time to boil some fresh ones and add them to the reheated stew for a complete and satisfying meal.
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As the stew simmers and the aroma fills your kitchen, you'll be transported back to the moment you first created this comforting dish, ready to savor its rich, hearty flavors once more.
How To Reheat Leftover Lamb Stew
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To reheat leftover Guinness lamb stew, start by removing it from the refrigerator and letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help the stew reheat more evenly and prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
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Transfer the stew to a large pot or Dutch oven and place it on the stove over medium-low heat. Stir the stew gently to distribute the heat evenly and prevent it from burning on the bottom.
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If the stew seems too thick, you can add a splash of beef broth, water, or even a bit more Guinness to thin it out. Be careful not to add too much liquid, as you don't want to dilute the flavors of the stew.
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Cover the pot with a lid and let the stew simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through and the lamb and vegetables are tender.
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If you want to add some freshness to the reheated stew, you can stir in some frozen green peas or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme just before serving.
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Alternatively, you can reheat the stew in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer the stew to an oven-safe dish. Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil and place it in the oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until the stew is heated through and bubbly.
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If you have stored the stew in the freezer, it's best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Once thawed, follow the stovetop or oven reheating instructions above.
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When reheating, be sure to check the seasoning and adjust with additional salt and pepper if needed. The flavors of the stew may have mellowed during storage, so a little extra seasoning can help brighten them up.
Interesting Fact About Guinness Lamb Stew
The Guinness lamb stew with vegetables recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender lamb, savory vegetables, and the rich, malty flavor of Guinness beer. This traditional Irish stew is perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day. The slow simmering process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a delicious and comforting meal. The addition of Guinness adds a unique depth of flavor to the stew, making it a standout dish. With its tender lamb, hearty vegetables, and rich broth, this stew is a satisfying and delicious option for a family dinner or gathering with friends.
Is Making Lamb Stew at Home Cost-Effective?
This Guinness Lamb Stew with Vegetables recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The combination of lamb, vegetables, and Guinness creates a hearty and flavorful stew. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $35-$40, making it a reasonable option for a satisfying meal. The use of affordable ingredients like lamb shoulder, carrots, and potatoes keeps the overall cost in check. The rich flavors and generous servings make it a worthwhile investment for a comforting and nourishing family dinner. Verdict: 8/10
Is Guinness Lamb Stew Healthy?
The Guinness lamb stew with vegetables recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:
- The recipe calls for a significant amount of lamb, which is high in saturated fat and cholesterol. Consuming too much saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease and other health issues.
- The use of all-purpose flour as a thickener adds refined carbohydrates to the dish, which can cause blood sugar spikes and contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess.
- The Guinness beer, while adding depth of flavor, also contributes to the overall calorie count of the stew.
- The recipe does include some vegetables, such as onions, carrots, and peas, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. However, the proportion of vegetables to meat could be higher to make the dish more balanced and nutritious.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Trim any visible fat from the lamb before cooking to reduce the overall fat content of the dish. Alternatively, you could use a leaner cut of lamb or substitute a portion of the lamb with a leaner protein source, such as chicken or turkey.
- Replace the all-purpose flour with a whole grain flour, such as whole wheat or spelt flour, to increase the fiber content and provide more complex carbohydrates.
- Reduce the amount of Guinness beer used in the recipe or substitute it with a low-calorie or non-alcoholic alternative, such as beef stock or red wine vinegar, to lower the calorie count without sacrificing flavor.
- Increase the variety and quantity of vegetables in the stew. Consider adding more nutrient-dense options, such as parsnips, turnips, or kale, to boost the vitamin and mineral content of the dish.
- Serve the stew with a side of whole grains, such as brown rice or quinoa, to provide additional fiber and complex carbohydrates, which can help balance the meal and promote feelings of fullness and satisfaction.
Editor's Opinion on This Lamb Stew Recipe
As a culinary expert, I find this Guinness lamb stew recipe to be a delightful combination of rich flavors and hearty ingredients. The use of Guinness adds a deep, robust flavor to the tender lamb and vegetables, creating a comforting and satisfying dish. The step-by-step instructions ensure that the stew is cooked to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. The make-ahead and freezer-friendly options make it a practical choice for busy days. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful choice for anyone looking to enjoy a warm and flavorful meal.
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