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

1. Season lamb cubes with salt and pepper.
2. Heat oil in a skillet and brown lamb in batches. Set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté diced onions and leeks until softened.
4. Stir flour into the onion-leek mixture, then gradually add stock, stirring to avoid lumps.
5. Add Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, garlic, and cranberry sauce to the mixture.
6. Transfer browned lamb, remaining stock, and onion-leek mixture to a slow cooker. Add cubed carrots, parsnips, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
7. Layer sliced potatoes on top and season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
8. Set slow cooker to high and cook for 7-8 hours.
9. Preheat oven broiler 15 minutes before serving. Brush potato slices with melted butter and broil for 5-7 minutes until golden.
10. Remove bay leaves, garnish with rosemary, and serve stew with crispy potato slices.

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!