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Taste of Ireland: Gran's Beef Stew

My Gran's Beef Stew is a beloved Irish classic that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This simple, hearty dish, filled with tender beef and fresh vegetables, captures the essence of family gatherings and cherished memories. Naturally gluten-free, it’s perfect for everyone to enjoy.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: British
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 T olive oil
  • 1 lb beef sirloin tips
  • 1 yellow onion chopped
  • 4 carrots peeled and sliced (about 1.5 cups)
  • 4 potatoes peeled and cubed (about 2+ cups)
  • 1 28 oz can whole peeled tomatoes
  • 1/4 t black pepper
  • 1 t salt will probably need to add more at the end
  • 1 t dried herbs thyme, basil, oregano - whatever you have

Equipment

  • stock pot

Method
 

  1. Heat oil in stockpot. Sauté onions and beef until onion is translucent. Season with salt and pepper. Cover with water and simmer for at least one hour, and up to three hours. (The longer it cooks, the more tender the beef becomes!)
  2. Add carrots, potatoes, tomatoes, and dried herbs. Add more water to cover if needed. Bring to a boil, cook on med-high until carrots are tender. About 30-45 minutes.
  3. Taste and add more salt until it tastes good to you. Turn down heat and simmer until you’re ready to serve. (The longer you simmer, the more flavorful and rich the broth becomes.)
  4. Enjoy! (I sometimes add extra potatoes and carrots to cheaply increase the number of servings. 😊)

Notes

Tips & Variations:
  • Meat Options: For a twist, try using lamb or chicken instead of beef. Both options add unique flavors while keeping the dish hearty.
  • Vegetable Additions: Feel free to include seasonal vegetables like parsnips or turnips for added depth. You can also toss in some fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to enhance the flavor.
  • Slow Cooker Method: If you prefer a hands-off approach, this stew can easily be made in a slow cooker. Simply brown the meat and then add all ingredients to the slow cooker, letting it simmer for 6-8 hours on low.
  • Thickening the Stew: For a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Serving Suggestion:
  • Serve Gran's Beef Stew with a generous slice of gluten-free brown bread, Irish soda bread, or saltine crackers to soak up the rich broth.
  • Pair the stew with a fresh side salad to balance the meal, using crisp greens, radishes, and a light vinaigrette.
  • For a cozy touch, garnish each bowl with fresh parsley or a dollop of mayonnaise or sour cream for creaminess.