Irish Stew Recipe: Ingredients, Salads, and Drink Pairings

                           -Irish Stew Recipe

             Ingredients:

- 1 kg lamb (or beef), cut into medium pieces

- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced

- 3 large carrots, sliced

- 2 large onions, chopped

- 2 garlic cloves, minced

- 4 cups beef broth (preferably lamb broth)

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- 1 bay leaf

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

                       Preparation Method:

1.  Brown the meat. : Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the meat and brown it on all sides. Remove the meat and set aside.

   

2.   Cook the vegetables: In the same pot, add the onions and garlic, cooking until the onions become translucent, about 5 minutes.

3.   Add vegetables. : Add the carrots and potatoes to the pot and stir for 2-3 minutes.

4.   Prepare the stew. : Return the browned meat to the pot. Add dried thyme and a bay leaf. Pour in the broth, making sure it covers all the ingredients.

5.   Simmer. : Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.

6.   Serve. : Remove the bay leaf. Serve the stew in deep bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

              Salads Served with Irish Stew:

1.    Irish Colcannon Salad:

   - Made with boiled cabbage, mashed potatoes, and green onions, mixed with butter or oil and served as a side dish.

2.   Arugula Salad with Apple and Walnuts:

   - Contains fresh arugula, sliced apple, and toasted walnuts, drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice.

                 Drinks Served with Irish Stew:

-   Irish Beer. : Traditional beer like "Guinness" is a perfect accompaniment to Irish stew.

-   Red Wine. : A medium red wine such as "Merlot" or "Cabernet Sauvignon" complements the flavor of the meat and vegetables.

-   Irish Apple Drink. : If you're looking for a non-alcoholic option, natural apple juice or sparkling Irish apple drink is a refreshing choice.

          Tips :

- Lamb is preferred in the original recipe as it provides a distinctive flavor, but beef can be used if it's more available.

- Slow cooking the stew ensures rich flavor and tender meat.