Hearty Irish Stew

Get ready to cozy up with a bowl of authentic Irish comfort! This hearty, slow-cooked beef stew, inspired by Rachel Allen, brings a taste of Ireland right to your table. Perfect for chilly evenings or a special family meal

• Ingredients:

1. 1½ kg stewing beef, cut into cubes
2. 175 g streaky bacon
3. 3 tbsp olive oil
4. 12 baby onions, peeled
5. 18 button mushrooms, left whole
6. 3 carrots, cut into quarters (or 12 baby carrots)
7. Salt and pepper to taste
8. 1 tbsp chopped thyme
9. 2 tbsp chopped parsley
10. 10 cloves garlic, crushed and grated
11. 425 ml red wine
12. 425 ml chicken or beef stock

1. 50 g butter
2. 50 g flour

• Method:

1. Brown the beef and bacon in olive oil in a hot casserole or heavy saucepan.
2. Remove the meat and add onions, mushrooms, and carrots to the pan, seasoning each step.
3. Return the meat to the pan with herbs and garlic.
4. Cover with red wine and stock, and simmer for an hour until meat and veggies are tender.
5. For the roux, melt butter, add flour, and cook for 2 minutes in a separate pan.
6. Remove meat and veggies from the stew. Boil the remaining liquid, whisk in the roux to thicken, and return meat and vegetables to the pan.
7. Adjust seasoning, sprinkle with parsley, and serve with champ.

Enjoy a bowl of this rich, flavorful stew that’s perfect for any occasion!