Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's perfect for a chilly evening? Look no further! This hearty lamb stew, inspired by the culinary genius of Jamie Oliver, is a delicious and relatively easy dish to whip up. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe will guide you through creating a truly satisfying and healthy meal. This easy recipe is packed with tender lamb, seasonal vegetables, and rich herbs, making it a perfect addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and best recipes.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 cups lamb stock (or beef stock)
- 1 cup red wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1 cup chopped potatoes
- 1 cup chopped turnips (or parsnips)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sear the Lamb: Season the lamb cubes generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the lamb in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot, until nicely browned on all sides. Remove the lamb and set aside.
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Sauté Vegetables: Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and tomato paste and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Build the Stew: Return the seared lamb to the pot. Add the thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Pour in the lamb stock and red wine (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for at least 1.5 hours, or until the lamb is incredibly tender.
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Add Potatoes and Turnips: After 1.5 hours, add the potatoes and turnips to the stew. Continue to simmer, covered, for another 30-45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
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Finish and Serve: Stir in the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread for a truly delicious homemade cooking experience.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Slow and Low: The key to a tender lamb stew is low and slow cooking. Don't rush the process!
- Brown the Lamb: Searing the lamb before adding it to the stew helps to develop a deeper, richer flavor.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pot: Sear the lamb in batches to ensure even browning.
- Quality Ingredients: Using good quality lamb stock and fresh herbs will make a noticeable difference in the flavor of your stew.
Variations:
- Add Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, sweet potatoes, or butternut squash.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it Thicker: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the stew during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This delicious and healthy lamb stew is a perfect example of easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor. It's a great option for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying dish! It's a testament to the power of simple, homemade cooking and definitely among the best recipes you'll find for a delightful and warming meal.