I is for Irish Stew

Irish Stew is exactly what we need to warm and comfort us during these cold dreary days of winter! With this stew you layer the ingredients, meat first then the vegetables, leeks, carrots, onions, and potatoes, then more meat until the pot is full. Traditionally, Irish Stew had more potatoes than meat, but this is no longer the case and if like me you are not keen on lamb, stewing beef is also excellent with less fat content and just as tasty and nutritious.

Nutritionally there are lots of good things in Irish Stew:

🥩 The meat provides the protein we need and when cooked slowly, for at least two hours, it is nice and tender so easier to digest. Protein contains all the amino acids that the body needs to help it grow and repair. It is the building block for bones, muscles, cartilage, and skin. We need protein to build a strong body and protect us from disease.

🌱 Leeks contain Vitamins A and C which help build a healthy immune system. Leeks also contain folate – a B Vitamin that is important for cell growth and development.

🧅 Onions contain health-giving properties, including flavonoids and Vitamin C, which are antioxidants that protect cells from free radical damage. Quercetin is a flavonoid and is anti-inflammatory which may help lower high blood pressure.

🥕 Carrots, as I hope you know because I have talked about this wonderful vegetable before, are packed with health-boosting benefits. Carrots boost immunity and are good for vision and because of their fibre content also aid digestion.

Go on, why not make a good old-fashioned Irish Stew, and enjoy all these health benefits, while providing that lovely warm comforting feeling that only stew can provide?

Live with joy and health 💚
Elizabeth Beetham