Lamb stew is a timeless dish that evokes warmth and comfort, making it a favorite in kitchens around the world.

This hearty meal showcases tender pieces of lamb simmered slowly with aromatic vegetables and fragrant herbs, resulting in a dish that is both satisfying and packed with flavor.

Perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends, lamb stew is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit your personal tastes.

Historically, stews have been a practical way to prepare meals, allowing tougher cuts of meat to become tender through slow cooking.

This method not only enhances the texture but also infuses the broth with rich flavors, creating a delicious and nourishing meal. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the process of making a classic lamb stew that can be enjoyed with crusty bread or over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

For the Stew:

• 2 pounds lamb shoulder or leg (cut into 1-2 inch cubes)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 3-4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 medium carrots (sliced)
• 2 celery stalks (sliced)
• 2 medium potatoes (peeled and diced)
• 1 cup green beans (trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2-3 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley (chopped)

How to Make

Prepare the Lamb:

Start by patting the lamb pieces dry with paper towels. This step helps to achieve a nice browning on the meat. Season the lamb generously with salt and pepper.

Sear the Lamb:

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned lamb in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Sear the lamb on all sides until it develops a deep brown color, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the browned lamb from the pot and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics:

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add the Vegetables:

Stir in the sliced carrots, celery, and diced potatoes. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they start to soften.

Deglaze the Pot:

If using red wine, pour it into the pot, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. This adds depth to the stew. Allow the wine to simmer for a couple of minutes until it reduces slightly.

Combine Ingredients:

Return the seared lamb to the pot along with any accumulated juices. Add the broth, tomato paste, bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary. Stir to combine all the ingredients.

Simmer the Stew:

Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the lamb is fork-tender and the flavors meld together. Stir occasionally and check the liquid level; if it gets too thick, you can add a little more broth or water.

Add Green Beans:

About 15-20 minutes before the stew is done, add the trimmed green beans. They should be tender but still vibrant in color. Simmer for the remaining time.

Adjust Seasoning:

Once the stew is ready, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.

Serve:

Ladle the hot lamb stew into bowls, garnishing with chopped fresh parsley. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Enjoy:

Gather around the table and enjoy the rich, hearty flavors of this classic lamb stew!

Chef’s Note

Cut of Lamb: Lamb shoulder is ideal for stews due to its marbling, which adds flavor and tenderness. However, lamb leg or shank can also be used for a leaner option.

Wine Options: If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with additional broth or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity.

Vegetable Variations: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or peas. You can also add fresh spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.

Storage Tips: Leftover lamb stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if necessary.

Serving Suggestions: For a complete meal, serve the stew with a side of crusty bread for dipping or over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 1.5 cups)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg (varies based on broth)
• Calcium: 60mg
• Iron: 5mg

Lamb stew is not only delicious but also provides a good source of protein and essential nutrients, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option.

Conclusion

Lamb stew is a classic comfort food that celebrates the robust flavors of slow-cooked lamb and vegetables. This dish is perfect for gathering family and friends around the table, offering a nourishing meal that warms the heart and soul.

With its versatility and rich flavors, lamb stew can easily become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the simmering scents fill your kitchen as you create this delectable dish that everyone will love! Enjoy!

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