Get ready to warm your soul with a bowl of hearty Weight Watchers Irish Stew! This classic dish, brimming with tender cubed lamb or beef, vibrant vegetables, and rich flavors, is a delightful way to enjoy a comforting meal without the guilt. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this stew not only satisfies your taste buds but also fits seamlessly into your healthy eating plan. With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Dive into our recipe and discover the secret to making the ultimate Irish stew that’s both delicious and Weight Watchers-friendly!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 45 mins
Cuisine: Irish
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs lamb or beef, cubed
- 4 cups beef broth
- 3 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup pearl onions
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Trim excess fat from lamb or beef and cut into uniform 1-inch cubes. Pat meat dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning.
- Season meat cubes generously with salt, pepper, and thyme. Allow meat to rest at room temperature for 15 minutes to enhance flavor absorption.
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or stockpot over medium-high heat. Lightly spray with cooking spray or use minimal oil to keep Weight Watchers points low.
- Brown meat cubes in batches, ensuring each piece develops a rich golden-brown crust. Do not overcrowd the pan to maintain proper searing temperature.
- Remove browned meat and set aside. In the same pot, sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Return meat to the pot and pour in beef broth. Bring liquid to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover.
- Cook meat on low heat for approximately 1 hour, allowing it to become tender and develop deep flavors.
- Add peeled and diced potatoes, pearl onions, and sliced carrots to the pot. Stir gently to combine with meat and broth.
- Continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes or until vegetables are fork-tender and meat is extremely soft.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Let stew rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve hot in bowls, ensuring each serving has a balanced mix of meat and vegetables. Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and freshness.
Tips
- Choose the Right Meat: Opt for lean cuts of lamb or beef to keep the stew healthy. Trim any excess fat before cooking to reduce the overall fat content.
- Sear for Flavor: Don’t skip the browning step! Searing the meat develops a rich, deep flavor that enhances the overall taste of your stew. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan to get that perfect golden crust.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the seasoned meat to rest at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking helps the flavors penetrate the meat better, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
- Low and Slow: Cooking the stew on low heat for an extended period allows the meat to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully. Patience is key for a delicious outcome!
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables! Adding peas, turnips, or parsnips can give your stew an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.
- Season to Taste: Always taste your stew before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. A little extra salt or fresh herbs can elevate the dish to new heights.
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile of your stew. It’s the perfect finishing touch!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 110mg
