Mary Berry Irish Stew Recipe

Mary Berry’s Irish Stew is a classic, hearty dish featuring tender lamb, potatoes, and root vegetables simmered in a rich, flavorful broth. This comforting one-pot meal is perfect for chilly days, offering a delicious taste of traditional Irish cuisine with simple ingredients and slow cooking for maximum flavor.

What is Mary Berry Irish Stew?

Mary Berry’s Irish Stew is a slow-cooked dish made with lamb or mutton, potatoes, onions, and carrots, gently simmered in stock until the meat is tender and the broth is rich. This dish is a staple in Irish cuisine, known for its simple preparation and deeply satisfying taste.

Other Popular Recipes

• Mary Berry Smoked Haddock Lasagne
• Mary Berry Beef Stew
• Mary Berry Cheese Fondue
• Jamie Oliver Game Casserole

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Authentic and traditional: A classic Irish dish made with simple, wholesome ingredients.
• Tender and flavorful lamb: Slow cooking ensures the meat is juicy and tender.
• One-pot meal: Easy to prepare and requires minimal cleanup.
• Perfect for cold weather: A warm and nourishing dish for cozy dinners.
• Great for leftovers: It tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.

Ingredients Needed for Mary Berry Irish Stew

For the Stew:

• 800g lamb shoulder or neck (cut into chunks)
• 1 tbsp plain flour (for coating the meat)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion (sliced)
• 2 carrots (sliced)
• 2 celery stalks (chopped)
• 1 leek (sliced)
• 3 large potatoes (peeled and cut into chunks)
• 500ml lamb or beef stock
• 250ml water
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

For Garnish:

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large casserole dish or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Chopping board and knife
• Measuring cups
• Ladle

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Irish Stew

Step 1: Prepare the lamb.
Pat the lamb dry with a paper towel and season with salt and black pepper. Toss in flour to coat lightly.

Step 2: Brown the meat.
Heat olive oil in a large casserole dish over medium-high heat. Add the lamb in batches and sear until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the vegetables.
In the same dish, add the onions, carrots, celery, and leeks. Sauté for 5 minutes until slightly softened.

Step 4: Add potatoes and herbs.
Return the browned lamb to the pot, then add the potatoes, thyme, and bay leaf.

Step 5: Pour in the stock.
Pour in the lamb stock and water. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the meat is tender and the broth is rich.

Step 6: Adjust seasoning and serve.
Remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

What to Serve With Mary Berry Irish Stew

• Irish soda bread: Perfect for dipping into the rich broth.
• Steamed cabbage: A traditional Irish side dish.
• Mashed potatoes: Add extra comfort to the meal.
• Roasted root vegetables: Complements the flavors of the stew.
• Butter-glazed green beans: A fresh and vibrant contrast.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Irish Stew

• Use bone-in lamb for extra flavor: Cooking with bones enhances the broth.
• Brown the meat properly: Searing the lamb first creates a deeper, richer taste.
• Cook low and slow: Slow cooking ensures the lamb becomes tender.
• Let it rest before serving: This allows the flavors to meld together.
• Skim excess fat: If needed, remove any excess fat from the surface before serving.

What are Variations of Mary Berry Irish Stew?

• Beef instead of lamb: Substitute with stewing beef if lamb is unavailable.
• Add barley: Pearl barley adds texture and makes the stew heartier.
• Guinness Irish Stew: Replace some stock with Guinness for a richer flavor.
• Garlic and rosemary twist: Add minced garlic and fresh rosemary for extra depth.
• Vegetable-heavy version: Increase the number of carrots, leeks, and potatoes for a plant-focused dish.

How Do I Store Mary Berry Irish Stew?

• Refrigerate in an airtight container: Keeps fresh for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for later: Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheat gently: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of stock if needed.

How Can I Reheat Irish Stew Without Losing Flavor?

• Stovetop method: Heat over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave method: Reheat in short intervals, stirring in between.
• Oven method: Warm in a covered dish at 160°C (320°F) for 20 minutes.

How Can I Make Irish Stew Healthier?

• Trim excess fat from the meat: Reduces overall fat content.
• Use low-sodium stock: Helps control salt levels.
• Increase vegetables: Add extra carrots, celery, and leeks.
• Thicken naturally: Mash a few potatoes instead of adding flour.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

• Calories: 420
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 5g

FAQs

What Is the Best Cut of Lamb for Irish Stew?

The best cut of lamb for Irish stew is lamb shoulder or neck, as these cuts contain enough fat and connective tissue to become tender and flavorful during slow cooking. Lamb shanks can also be used for a richer broth.

How Can I Make Irish Stew Thicker?

To thicken Irish stew, mash a few cooked potatoes into the broth or mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Cooking uncovered for the final 20 minutes also helps reduce and thicken the sauce.

Can I Cook Irish Stew in a Slow Cooker?

Yes, Irish stew can be made in a slow cooker. Brown the meat first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the lamb is tender and the flavors are well-developed.

Final Words

Mary Berry’s Irish Stew is a comforting and nourishing dish that showcases the simplicity and richness of traditional Irish cuisine. With tender lamb, hearty vegetables, and a flavorful broth, this stew is perfect for a cozy meal. Try it today and enjoy a warm, home-cooked classic!

Print