Rich Irish Stew with Cheddar Dumplings
A hearty and comforting Irish stew made with tender beef, earthy vegetables, and fluffy cheddar dumplings, perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Stew
- 2 pounds beef, cut into chunks Tender cuts are preferable.
- 4 cups beef broth Use low-sodium broth if preferred.
- 4 large carrots, sliced Adds sweetness to the stew.
- 4 large potatoes, cubed Use starchy potatoes for a creamy texture.
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the flavor.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon thyme Dried thyme is also suitable.
- 1 teaspoon rosemary Dried rosemary works well.
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheddar Dumplings
- 1 cup all-purpose flour Can be substituted with gluten-free flour.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese Choose a sharp cheddar for more flavor.
- 1/4 cup milk Use more if needed for consistency.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, brown the beef over medium heat.
- Add onions and garlic and sauté until softened.
Cooking the Stew
- Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary.
- Add the carrots, potatoes, and beef broth, then bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until the meat is tender.
Preparing the Dumplings
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and cheese.
- Stir in milk and melted butter until just combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture on top of the simmering stew.
- Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes until dumplings are fluffy.
Serving
- Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and crusty bread.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding parsnips or a splash of red wine.