A hearty and comforting dish, Irish stew is a timeless classic with deep roots in Ireland’s culinary history. Traditionally made with lamb, root vegetables, and a rich broth, this stew is slow-cooked to perfection, creating a tender, flavorful meal that warms you from the inside out. Mary Berry’s take on this traditional favorite keeps things simple yet incredibly delicious, making it an ideal dish for family dinners or cozy gatherings.

If you’re looking for a one-pot meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying, this Mary Berry Irish stew recipe is a must-try. It captures the essence of rustic home cooking with its rich, meaty broth and tender vegetables. Whether you’re new to Irish cuisine or a long-time fan, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home.

Recipe at a Glance

For a quick overview, here are the key details you need to know before making this Irish stew:

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Difficulty Level: Easy
Dietary Suitability: Gluten-free, dairy-free

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these simple ingredients to prepare Mary Berry classic Irish stew Recipe:

2 lbs lamb shoulder or neck, cut into chunks
4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
3 carrots, sliced
1 large onion, diced
3 cups beef or lamb stock
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Substitutes and Optional Ingredients

If you need ingredient swaps, consider these options:

Lamb Alternatives: Beef or chicken can be used, though lamb gives the most authentic taste.
Vegetables: You can add parsnips, leeks, or turnips for extra depth.
Stock Choices: Chicken or vegetable stock can replace beef/lamb stock if preferred.

Equipment You’ll Need for Irish Stew

Having the right equipment makes cooking much easier. Here’s what you’ll need:

Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
Sharp knife and cutting board
Wooden spoon for stirring
Ladle for serving

Mary Berry Irish Stew Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

Time needed: 2 hours and 20 minutes

Follow these steps to create the perfect Irish stew:

Brown the Meat
Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add lamb pieces and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Build the Broth
Stir in tomato paste, thyme, bay leaf, and stock. Bring to a gentle boil.
Simmer Slowly
Return the lamb to the pot. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 1.5 hours.
Add the Potatoes
Stir in potatoes and cook for another 30 minutes until tender.
Season & Serve
Remove bay leaf, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Step-Specific Tips or Notes

For extra depth of flavor, deglaze the pot with a splash of red wine before adding the stock.
Cut vegetables into uniform pieces so they cook evenly.

Nutrition Facts & Dietary Info

Each serving of Irish stew is packed with nutrients. Here’s a general breakdown:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	450
Protein	30g
Carbohydrates	40g
Fat	18g
Fiber	6g

This dish is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Incredibly flavorful. The slow-cooked broth becomes rich and deeply infused with meaty goodness.
Simple yet wholesome. Uses everyday ingredients to create a satisfying, nourishing meal.
Perfect for meal prep. Stew flavors continue to develop over time, making leftovers taste even better.

Pro Tips for Perfect Irish Stew

Opt for bone-in lamb if possible, as it enhances the depth of the broth.
Cook low and slow to ensure the meat becomes tender while keeping the vegetables intact.
Let the stew rest for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Fun Variations & Ingredient Swaps

Add a splash of Guinness for a robust, slightly malty depth of flavor.
Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a subtle hint of sweetness.
Try a vegetarian version by substituting meat with mushrooms and using vegetable stock.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

Skipping the browning step. Searing the meat adds essential depth and complexity to the stew.
Adding potatoes too early. This can lead to them becoming too soft or disintegrating.
Not tasting before serving. Always adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

How to Store & Serve Irish Stew

Storing

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making leftovers even tastier.
Freezing: Portion the stew into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Serving

Pair with crusty bread or Irish soda bread to soak up the rich broth.
Serve alongside buttered cabbage or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Mary Berry Irish Stew Recipe FAQs

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the meat first, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for tender, flavorful results.

What sides go well with Irish stew?

Traditional pairings include mashed potatoes, Irish soda bread, or roasted vegetables to complement the hearty flavors.

Can I use beef instead of lamb?

Absolutely! Beef provides a slightly different but still delicious flavor. Opt for stew beef or chuck roast for the best results.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Irish stew is a perfect balance of simplicity and rich flavor. The slow-cooked lamb, tender vegetables, and deeply savory broth create a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just craving a warm, hearty meal, this Irish stew delivers on all fronts. Give it a try, and it just might become your new favorite comfort dish!