Mother Lizar’s Beef Stew 🥩🍲

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6

Description:

This cherished recipe, handed down from my grandmother to my mother and then to me, encapsulates the essence of hearty Irish stew. With its rich flavors and comforting warmth, it’s perfect for chilly winter nights or as a satisfying weeknight meal. This stew not only tastes divine but also freezes exceptionally well, making it an ideal make-ahead dish.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat:

   • Start by ensuring you have a sturdy cast iron pot or skillet ready; this is crucial for the authentic taste.
   • Melt the bacon fat in the pot over medium heat.
   • Coat the beef cubes with all-purpose flour, ensuring they are evenly coated.
   • Add the floured meat to the hot bacon fat in the pot.

2. Brown the Meat:

   • Stir and fry the meat until all sides are beautifully browned.
   • It’s essential to achieve a lovely brown color for depth of flavor.

3. Add Liquid and Seasonings:

   • Once the meat is evenly browned (but not fully cooked), add enough water or beef stock to cover the meat.
   • Drop in the bay leaves, fresh parsley, and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
   • If you’re using water, you can intensify the broth by adding two bouillon cubes for extra richness.

4. Simmer the Stew:

   • Cover the pot and let the stew simmer over low heat for approximately an hour.
   • Check periodically and add more water or broth if needed to maintain the desired consistency.

5. Add Vegetables:

   • Once the meat is tender, it’s time to introduce the vegetables.
   • Peel and halve the carrots, adding them to the stew.
   • Let the carrots cook for about 20 minutes, allowing them to infuse their sweetness into the broth.

6. Final Touches:

   • Next, add the peeled and quartered potatoes along with the halved onions.
   • Continue cooking for another twenty minutes or until the potatoes are soft and fork-tender.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Your Mother Lizar’s Beef Stew is now ready to be enjoyed!
   • While it’s tempting to dig in immediately, the flavors truly deepen and meld when the stew is allowed to rest overnight.
   • Serve it piping hot, and savor the rich aroma and comforting taste that only a timeless family recipe can offer.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 762.7
• Fat: 54.3g
  • Saturated Fat: 22.5g
• Cholesterol: 74.9mg
• Sodium: 351.6mg
• Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fiber: 6.3g
  • Sugar: 5.2g
• Protein: 13.8g

Recipe Notes:

• For the best results, use a cast iron pot or skillet, as recommended in the recipe.
• Feel free to customize the vegetables according to your preferences or what you have on hand.
• This stew freezes exceptionally well, making it a convenient option for meal prep or leftovers.
• Don’t rush the cooking process; allowing the stew to simmer slowly ensures that the flavors develop fully.
• Serve with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete and satisfying meal experience.

Embrace the tradition and warmth of Mother Lizar’s Beef Stew, a timeless recipe that brings generations together around the dinner table. With its rich flavors and comforting aroma, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household too! 🍲👩‍🍳