Stewed lamb with potatoes and carrots

Stewed lamb with potatoes and carrots is a comforting, slow-cooked dish that’s perfect for a hearty meal. Here's a recipe for this flavorful, tender dish:

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs (900g) lamb shoulder or stew meat (cut into 1-inch cubes)
  • 4 medium potatoes (peeled and cut into chunks)
  • 4 carrots (peeled and cut into thick slices)
  • 1 onion (chopped)
  • 3 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 4 cups beef or lamb broth
  • 1 cup red wine (optional)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried thyme (or 2 tsp fresh thyme)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Brown the lamb: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the lamb with salt and pepper. Add the lamb cubes in batches, browning them on all sides (about 4-5 minutes per batch). Remove the lamb and set aside.

  2. Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add the onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring to prevent burning.

  3. Add tomato paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to caramelize it slightly, which will enhance the flavor of the stew.

  4. Deglaze with wine (optional): If using red wine, pour it into the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for a few minutes until reduced by half.

  5. Add broth and seasoning: Return the browned lamb to the pot. Add the beef or lamb broth, thyme, bay leaves, paprika (if using), and season with more salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.

  6. Simmer the stew: Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

  7. Add potatoes and carrots: After an hour, add the potatoes and carrots to the stew. Continue simmering for another 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the lamb is tender and the vegetables are fully cooked.

  8. Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Tips:

  • For extra richness, add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar before simmering.
  • Serve with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious gravy.

Enjoy your stewed lamb with potatoes and carrots—perfect for a cozy meal!