The Little Green Book of Blarney includes some Irish recipes such as this one for Irish Stew. Traditional Irish stew was a hearty, rustic dish made with readily available ingredients; namely mutton (sheep), potatoes, and onions. This classic version uses beef, although you may also substitute lamb.
2 pounds stewing beef, cut into chunks
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons flour Salt and pepper, to taste
3 large onions, coarsely chopped
2 bottles Guinness Stout
2 pounds potatoes, cut into chunks
1 pound carrots, cut into chunks
Water
Sprig of fresh thyme
Fresh parsley, chopped
Heat oil over medium heat in a wide saucepan. Season beef chunks with flour, salt, and pepper, and then add to saucepan, bring sure to brown all sides of the meat. Add onions and one bottle of Guinness. Open second bottle of Guinness for the cook, (Irish Stew takes some time!). Use a spatula or wooden spoon to scrape off the caramelized meat juices and the flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a boil, and then add fresh thyme and enough water to cover the contents. Simmer for one to two hours, and then add potatoes and carrots and cook until vegetables are tender. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Consider The Little Green Book of Blarney your very own pot of gold, a treasure trove of facts and wisdom about the Emerald Isle, its people, and our collective Irish past. You'll explore Irish history, culture, and literature, a couple of Irish recipes as well as blessings and fun. And that's no blarney! 144 pages with full color illustrations, 4-1/4" wide x 5-3/4" tall. Elastic band place holder. Concealed wire binding lies flat for ease of use.
