Introduction
Lamb and red wine stew is a classic dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With tender lamb slow-cooked in rich red wine, aromatic herbs, and fresh vegetables, this stew is a perfect dish for cozy evenings. Jamie Oliver’s recipe emphasizes using quality ingredients and simple techniques to create a flavorful and hearty meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1 kg of lamb shoulder, diced
– 2 medium onions, peeled and chopped
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 sticks of celery, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, crushed
– 400 ml of good quality red wine
– 500 ml of lamb stock
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
– 4 sprigs of fresh thyme
– Olive oil for cooking
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon of tomato purée
Prep Time
Prep time for this dish is approximately 20 minutes. This includes dicing the lamb and chopping the vegetables to prepare for cooking.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is about 2 to 3 hours. The total time to prepare and cook this lamb and red wine stew is around 3 hours and 20 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 4 to 6 servings, making it ideal for family dinners or for enjoying leftovers the next day.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Ensure the lamb is cut into chunks and the vegetables are diced as needed.
Step 2: Brown the Lamb
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the lamb in batches to avoid overcrowding. Brown the meat on all sides, then remove it from the pot and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add more olive oil if needed. Sauté chopped onions, carrots, and celery until they soften and become fragrant.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Herbs
Stir in minced garlic and fresh herbs such as rosemary and thyme. Cook for a couple of minutes until aromatic.
Step 5: Incorporate the Wine
Pour in red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze. Let the wine simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 6: Combine the Ingredients
Return the browned lamb to the pot along with diced tomatoes and stock. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 7: Season the Stew
Add salt and pepper to taste, ensuring the flavors are well-balanced.
Step 8: Simmer the Stew
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let the stew simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the lamb is tender.
Step 9: Check for Consistency
After simmering, check the consistency of the stew. If it’s too thin, uncover and cook for a bit longer to thicken.
Step 10: Serve the Stew
Once cooked, serve the stew in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy it with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.
Notes
Tip for Meat Selection
Use shoulder or leg of lamb for the best results, as these cuts are ideal for slow cooking.
Vegetable Variations
Feel free to add other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for additional flavor and texture.
Storage Instructions
The stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer storage.
Flavor Enhancement
For deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce before serving.
Cook techniques
Searing
Searing the lamb in a hot pan creates a rich, brown crust, enhancing the flavor of the stew.
Deglazing
After browning the meat, deglaze the pan with red wine to lift the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.
Slow Cooking
Allow the stew to simmer gently for a long time, which tenderizes the meat and melds the flavors.
FAQ
Can I use different meats for this stew?
Yes, you can substitute lamb with beef or pork if desired, but cooking time may vary.
What is the best type of wine to use?
A good quality red wine, such as a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, pairs well with the flavors of the stew.
How can I thicken the stew?
You can thicken the stew by reducing it further or by adding a slurry of cornstarch and water.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, this stew tastes even better the next day and can be made ahead of time and reheated.
What sides pair well with lamb and red wine stew?
Mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a simple green salad complement the stew nicely.
Conclusion
The lamb and red wine stew is a delightful and hearty dish that brings warmth and flavor, perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. Its rich combination of tender lamb, aromatic vegetables, and deep red wine creates a comforting meal that can be enjoyed any time of the year. Incorporating fresh herbs enhances the flavor profile, making it a timeless classic that is sure to satisfy.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Beef Bourguignon
A traditional French dish that combines beef with rich red wine, carrots, onions, and mushrooms, offering a similar hearty experience to the lamb stew.
Chicken Cacciatore
This Italian chicken stew pairs well with red wine and features bell peppers, tomatoes, and herbs, making it a flavorful alternative to lamb.
Vegetarian Mushroom Stew
A delightful mushroom-based stew that uses red wine for depth, creating a rich flavor profile ideal for those seeking a meat-free option.
Lamb Tagine
A Moroccan-inspired dish featuring lamb slow-cooked with spices, apricots, and chickpeas, showcasing a different cultural take on lamb stew.
Osso Buco
A Milanese specialty made with braised veal shanks, this dish is rich and comforting, perfect for red wine lovers seeking something different.
Beef and Guinness Stew
A hearty Irish stew that uses stout for added depth, offering a fantastic alternative for those looking for a robust flavor.