Description

This slow cooker Welsh Lamb Stew is the ultimate comfort food, packed with tender lamb, root vegetables, and topped with golden, crispy potato slices. With layers of rich flavor from Worcestershire sauce, fresh herbs, and a touch of sweetness from optional cranberry sauce, this dish is perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, creating a meal that's both satisfying and easy to prepare. Let’s get into how to make this flavorful, hearty Welsh stew.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds cubed Welsh lamb shoulder or neck
• 2 onions, diced
• 2 leeks, diced (white parts only)
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic
• 2 cups stock (chicken or lamb)
• 2 carrots, cubed
• 2 parsnips, cubed
• 2 bay leaves
• 3 potatoes, sliced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
• 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing the potatoes)
• Rosemary sprig (for garnish)
• Optional: 1/2 tablespoon cranberry sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Method

Season and Brown the Lamb: Start by seasoning the lamb cubes generously with salt and pepper. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and brown the lamb in batches, ensuring that each piece is well-seared on all sides. Once browned, set the lamb aside. This browning process locks in flavor and adds depth to the stew.

Sauté the Onions and Leeks: In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the diced onions and leeks. Sauté over medium heat until they are softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. These vegetables will add sweetness and richness to the stew as they cook down.

Prepare the Sauce: Stir the flour into the onion and leek mixture, creating a roux. Gradually add some of the stock, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Once the mixture thickens, stir in Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, garlic, and cranberry sauce (if using). This sauce will form the flavorful base of the stew.

Combine in the Slow Cooker: Transfer the browned lamb, the remaining stock, and the sautéed onion-leek mixture into your slow cooker. Add the cubed carrots, parsnips, and bay leaves. Give everything a good stir to combine. The lamb will become tender and the vegetables will soak up all the rich flavors as the stew cooks.

Layer the Potatoes: Arrange the sliced potatoes in a single layer on top of the stew. Season the potato slices with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme. These potatoes will become golden and crispy towards the end of cooking, adding a delightful contrast to the tender stew beneath.

Slow Cook: Set the slow cooker to high and cook for 7-8 hours. During this time, the lamb will become fall-apart tender, and the flavors will meld together beautifully.

Crisp the Potatoes: About 15 minutes before serving, preheat your oven’s broiler. Brush the tops of the potato slices with melted butter to help them brown. Transfer the slow cooker insert (if oven-safe) or carefully move the potatoes to a baking dish. Broil the potatoes for 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden and slightly crispy.

Garnish and Serve: Remove the bay leaves from the stew before serving. Garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary for a fragrant finish. Serve the Welsh lamb stew in bowls with the crispy potato slices on top, and enjoy the comforting warmth of this hearty dish.

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip:
For an extra flavor boost, serve the stew with a side of crusty bread to mop up all the delicious sauce. You can also substitute turnips or sweet potatoes for the parsnips for a different twist on the root vegetable flavors.

Conclusion:
This Slow Cooker Welsh Lamb Stew is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days or special family meals. The tender lamb, savory vegetables, and crispy potatoes combine for a meal that’s both rich and satisfying. With minimal prep and the magic of slow cooking, you can enjoy a traditional Welsh-inspired meal that’s as impressive as it is easy to make. This recipe is sure to become a favorite for anyone who loves wholesome, flavorful comfort food. Enjoy!