Hearty Lamb Stew Recipe

This Hearty Lamb Stew is the ultimate comfort food that’ll warm you up from the inside out. It’s packed with tender lamb, chunky vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth that’ll have you coming back for seconds. Best of all, it’s surprisingly easy to make, even on busy weeknights!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Lamb Shoulder: The star of the show, providing rich flavor and becoming wonderfully tender when slow-cooked.
• All-Purpose Flour: For dredging the lamb, helping to create a delicious crust and thicken the stew.
• Olive Oil: For searing the lamb and sautéing the vegetables.
• Yellow Onion and Garlic: The aromatic base of our stew.
• Tomato Paste: Adds depth and a touch of acidity to balance the rich flavors.
• Red Wine: Deglazes the pot and adds complexity to the broth.
• Beef Broth: Forms the base of our stew liquid.
• Herbs: Thyme, bay leaves, and rosemary infuse the stew with wonderful aromatics.
• Potatoes and Carrots: Hearty vegetables that make this a complete meal.
• Fresh Parsley: For a bright finish and pop of color.

Variations

• Vegetable Swap: Try adding parsnips, turnips, or celery for different flavors and textures.
• Herb Mix: Experiment with different herb combinations like sage or oregano.
• Meat Alternative: While lamb is traditional, beef chuck works well too for a different twist.

How to Make Lamb Stew

Step 1: Prep and Sear

Season and flour the lamb, then sear it in batches until golden brown. This step is crucial for developing deep flavors.

Step 2: Build the Base

Sauté onions and garlic, then add tomato paste and wine to create a flavorful foundation.

Step 3: Simmer and Braise

Add the lamb back in with broth and herbs, then let it slow-cook in the oven until the meat is tender.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Toss in potatoes and carrots, then continue cooking until everything is perfectly tender.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Remove the herb stems, garnish with parsley, and serve piping hot!

How to Serve

Serve this stew in deep bowls with a side of crusty bread for soaking up every last drop of the delicious broth. A simple green salad makes a great accompaniment to balance the richness of the stew.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This stew keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, and the flavors only get better with time.

Freezing

Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-6 hours.

What cut of lamb is best for stew?
Lamb shoulder is ideal for stew as it becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked. You could also use leg of lamb or lamb neck.

Can I omit the wine?
Yes, you can replace the wine with additional beef broth. However, the wine adds depth to the flavor, so consider adding a splash of vinegar to achieve a similar complexity.

How do I know when the stew is done?
The stew is ready when the lamb is fork-tender and the vegetables are cooked through but not mushy. This usually takes about 2 hours total cooking time.

This Lamb Stew is a true labor of love that’s worth every minute. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends. Don’t be intimidated by the cooking time – most of it is hands-off, leaving you free to relax while your kitchen fills with mouthwatering aromas. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become a staple in your comfort food repertoire!

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