Irish stew, “ballymaloe” or “stobhach gaelach” as it is called in Gaelic, traditionally contains chunks of lamb or mutton (less tender meat from sheep more than two years of age), potatoes, onions and parsley. Often the neck bones, shanks and other trimmings were the only basis for the stock.
/traditional-irish-stew-recipe-435757-hero-01-7ec7d4b8688a424d93b080f000ab53ff.jpg)
Parsnips – Peel & cut into 1/2″ thick circles. Discard the top. If some pieces near the top are very large (like 2″ in diameter) then halve
Traditional Irish stew or Stobhach Gaelach in Gaelic, was made with what was readily available on hand & cheap cuts of meat. Since in Ireland, primarily raised sheep were raised and root vegetables were easy and cheap to grow, the original version of this stew consisted of fatty cuts of lamb, onions & floury potatoes layered with salt & pepper.
How authentic Irish stew is made
FAQ
What is the traditional name for Irish stew?
What is the national dish of the Irish?
What is a traditional Irish dish?
What is the difference between English stew and Irish stew?
What is a real Irish Stew?
Purists will argue that a real Irish stew consists only of mutton, onions and potatoes but the reality is that any combination of carrots, potatoes, celery, turnips, swedes, parsnips, leek, kale and cabbage are perfectly acceptable – and traditional – additions to an authentic Irish stew.
What kind of meat is used in Irish Stew?
Generally, the meat used was on the bone, from the neck or shank, as this was thought to add more flavour. Other than mutton, Irish stew was originally made with as little as two additional ingredients – onions and potatoes. Luckier families may have been able to use goat or lamb, and add more root vegetables, like carrots, turnips or parsnips.
Is Irish Stew a purist dish?
Irish stew is a celebrated Irish dish, yet its composition is a matter of dispute. Purists maintain that the only acceptable and traditional ingredients are neck mutton chops or kid, potatoes, onions, and water. Others would add such items as carrots, turnips and pearl barley; but the purists maintain that they spoil the true flavour of the dish.
What is Irish stew made of?
Some cooks added turnips or parsnips, carrots and barley when available, though purists say true Irish stew contains only meat, potatoes and onions. Made in the traditional manner, the stew becomes thick and hearty, not thin like soup.