This Slow Cooker Lamb Stew is a warming hug in a bowl! With tender lamb, hearty veggies, and a rich broth, it’s the perfect meal for chilly days.
I love knowing I can toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic while I relax. Plus, the smell that fills the house is enough to make anyone hungry!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lamb Shoulder: This cut is ideal for stews because it becomes tender during slow cooking. If lamb isn’t available, you can substitute with beef chuck or even chicken thighs for different flavors.
Potatoes: I recommend using Yukon Gold or russet potatoes because they hold their shape well. If you’re avoiding carbs, cauliflower can be a great alternative!
Carrots: Fresh carrots add natural sweetness. If you have baby carrots, feel free to use them instead. They save prep time and taste just as good.
Broth: Beef broth enriches the stew, but vegetable broth can work well too. You could also make a homemade broth if you have the time.
Red Wine: It adds depth, but you can omit it if you prefer not to use wine or replace it with more broth or grape juice for sweetness.
Herbs: Thyme and rosemary are perfect here. Dried herbs are convenient, but if you have fresh ones, use them! Just double the amount as fresh herbs have a milder flavor.
How Do I Ensure the Lamb is Tender and Flavorsome?
The browning step is key for deep flavor in your stew. This caramelization creates a rich base. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
- Add the lamb pieces in batches to avoid crowding. Brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.
- Don’t skip browning! This step is what makes a stew taste amazing.
- Once browned, transfer to your slow cooker and proceed with adding other ingredients.
Also, remember that patience is crucial! Cooking on low for the full time allows flavors to meld beautifully and the lamb to become super tender.
How to Make Slow Cooker Lamb Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Meat and Vegetables:
- 2 lbs lamb shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
Liquids and Flavorings:
- 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Others:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty slow cooker lamb stew takes about 20 minutes to prepare, with a cooking time of 6-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. Perfect for a cozy meal without much fuss! Set it in the morning and enjoy the delightful aroma of stew filling your home.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Lamb:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the lamb pieces in batches if needed. Sear the lamb until it’s browned on all sides. This step helps to deepen the flavors of the stew, so don’t skip it!
2. Transfer to the Slow Cooker:
Once the lamb is browned, transfer it to the slow cooker, allowing all those juicy bits to go in as well.
3. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add this mixture to the slow cooker with the lamb.
4. Add Vegetables:
Next, add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and green peas to the slow cooker. These will cook beautifully and soak up all the delicious flavors!
5. Mix the Broth and Spice Mixture:
In a bowl, combine the beef or vegetable broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well, then pour this mix over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
6. Combine and Cook:
Gently stir everything in the slow cooker to combine. Make sure the lamb and vegetables are submerged in the liquid. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
7. Slow Cook:
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The stew is ready when the lamb is really tender and the flavors have melded together.
8. Final Touches:
Before serving, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Don’t forget to garnish it with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color!
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious lamb stew hot with crusty bread or over rice for a filling meal. Enjoy the warmth and flavors of this comforting dish!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! If you don’t have lamb shoulder, you can substitute it with beef chuck or pork shoulder. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly based on the type of meat used. Ensure that it’s cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
What Can I Use Instead of Red Wine?
If you prefer not to use red wine, you can substitute it with an extra cup of broth for moisture and flavor. For a similar taste, consider adding a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar to provide some acidity and depth.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover lamb stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure it’s completely cooled before freezing!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! You can customize your stew by adding other vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or bell peppers. Just chop them to similar sizes, and ensure they can cook through in the given cooking time. Add hearty veggies at the beginning and quick-cooking ones, like spinach, during the last hour of cooking.
