Jamie Oliver Lamb Stew Recipe [GUIDE]

Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Stew is a hearty, comforting dish packed with tender lamb, rich vegetables and aromatic herbs. The stew is a perfect mix of slow-cooked meat and flavorful ingredients that come together in a deeply satisfying way. What makes this stew special is Jamie’s focus on simple, quality ingredients and an effortless cooking method that ensures maximum flavor. It’s one of those recipes that feel like a warm hug after a long day. great for family dinners or a cozy evening in.

Jamie Oliver Lamb Stew Recipe

Ingredients Needed

For Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Stew, you’ll need a variety of fresh ingredients that enhance the natural flavors of the lamb. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Lamb: This is the star of the dish. You want a cut that’s perfect for slow cooking, like lamb shoulder or lamb neck. These cuts are ideal for stews because they become meltingly tender when slow-cooked.
• Onions: Sweet onions are preferred to provide a soft, mellow flavor that forms the base of the stew.
• Carrots: For sweetness and texture. They add an earthy note to balance the rich meat.
• Celery: It gives a fresh, slightly bitter contrast to the sweet vegetables.
• Garlic: A few cloves will boost the dish with aromatic, savory undertones.
• Tomatoes: Fresh or canned, tomatoes bring acidity that cuts through the richness of the lamb.
• Stock: Lamb stock or vegetable stock works best but chicken stock is also fine if that’s what you have on hand.
• Herbs: Rosemary, thyme and bay leaves add depth and fragrance to the stew. Fresh herbs really elevate the flavor.
• Olive Oil: For browning the lamb and sautéing the vegetables.
• Red Wine: A splash of red wine will help deglaze the pan and add a beautiful richness to the stew.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste.

Equipment Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Stew, you’ll need a few essential pieces of equipment to help you along the way:

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: This is key for browning the lamb and cooking the stew. A heavy-bottomed pot ensures even heat distribution which is crucial for slow cooking.
• Sharp Knife: You’ll need this to chop up your vegetables and trim the lamb.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring and scraping the bottom of the pot.
• Lid for the Pot: Essential for covering the stew while it simmers and retains moisture.
• Chopping Board: For prepping your veggies and herbs.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Stew

Making Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Stew is pretty straightforward and it’s the kind of recipe where you can truly enjoy the process. Here’s how you go about it:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by chopping your vegetables – carrots, celery, onions and garlic – into bite-sized pieces. Trim any excess fat from the lamb, then cut it into large chunks. Set everything aside.
2. Brown the Lamb: Heat a generous splash of olive oil in your pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the lamb in batches to avoid overcrowding. Brown the lamb on all sides for about 5-6 minutes. This step locks in flavor and gives the stew a deep, rich taste.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: After browning the lamb, remove it and set it aside. In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed, then toss in your onions, garlic, carrots and celery. Stir everything together and cook for 10 minutes or until softened and fragrant.
4. Add the Tomatoes & Wine: Once the vegetables are soft, add in your chopped tomatoes (or canned ones). Stir everything together and let it cook for a couple of minutes. Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot.
5. Add Stock & Herbs: Pour in your stock (enough to just cover the meat and veggies), then add the herbs. thyme, rosemary and bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper. Return the lamb to the pot.
6. Slow Cook: Cover the pot and lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Let the stew cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The lamb should be tender, falling apart when you poke it with a fork. If the stew gets too thick, you can always add a bit more stock or water.
7. Final Touches: Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the vegetables with a spoon or blend a small portion for a smoother texture.
8. Serve & Enjoy: Ladle the stew into bowls, maybe with a side of crusty bread or mashed potatoes. The combination of tender lamb, rich broth and vegetables is irresistible.

What I Learnt

Making this stew taught me a lot about the importance of layering flavors. Each step, from browning the lamb to adding wine and herbs, contributes something essential to the final dish. Slow cooking while it takes time, makes the lamb so tender that it practically falls apart. I also learned that the quality of the ingredients really shines through in a dish like this. fresh herbs, good quality stock and a splash of wine all add complexity and richness to the stew.

Another thing I realized was how flexible this recipe can be. You can swap out vegetables or adjust the herbs based on what you have in your kitchen. The technique is simple enough that you can make it your own.

Recipe Tweaks For Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Stew

Jamie Oliver’s lamb stew is already a flavor-packed, comforting dish but there are plenty of ways to put your personal spin on it. Here are a few tweaks you could consider:

1. Change the Cut of Lamb: The recipe usually calls for lamb shoulder which is tender and rich. But you can swap that for lamb shanks or leg of lamb for a slightly leaner, yet still juicy, result. If you’re using shanks, don’t forget to cook them long enough so the meat falls off the bone effortlessly.
2. Add More Herbs: While Jamie’s recipe uses rosemary and thyme, you could also throw in some mint or oregano for a new aromatic twist. A bit of tarragon or basil could work, too, depending on how adventurous you’re feeling.
3. Vegetable Variety: Carrots and potatoes are staples but if you want to up the nutrition and flavors, add in parsnips, turnips or even some chopped squash. These root veggies bring in an extra sweetness and depth.
4. Spice Things Up: Jamie’s stew is all about simplicity but you can throw in some warming spices like cumin, coriander or even a pinch of cinnamon. A dash of smoked paprika could also lend a smoky flavor to balance out the richness of the lamb.
5. Add a Touch of Wine or Beer: Jamie’s recipe uses stock but for a deeper flavor, try deglazing the pot with a glass of red wine or for a more earthy flavor, a stout or ale. This will create a more complex, savory base.
6. Fresh Citrus Zest: After the stew is finished, try adding a little lemon or orange zest right at the end. It adds a fresh burst of citrusy brightness that contrasts perfectly with the rich lamb and the hearty vegetables.
7. Incorporate Greens: If you want to boost the stew’s nutrition, stir in some chopped kale, spinach or chard just before serving. The greens will wilt and add a lovely color contrast while providing extra vitamins.
8. Make it a Stew-Curry Hybrid: If you enjoy a little curry flair, add a spoonful of curry paste or garam masala along with the garlic and onions. This subtle shift can turn the stew into a warm, cozy curry hybrid without overpowering the lamb’s natural flavors.

Storage Tips For Leftovers

The best thing about Jamie Oliver’s lamb stew is how even better it tastes the next day. Here’s how to make the most of your leftovers:

1. Cool it Quickly: Let the stew cool at room temperature for no more than two hours after cooking. To speed up the process, place it in shallow containers which help it cool faster and more evenly.
2. Fridge Storage: Once cooled, store the stew in airtight containers. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you have a lot, consider dividing it into smaller portions so you can easily reheat individual servings.
3. Freezing Leftovers: Lamb stew freezes beautifully. If you know you won’t finish it within a few days, portion out the leftovers into freezer-friendly bags or containers. Be sure to label the date so you can use them within 3 months for the best taste. When reheating from frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before heating on the stove.
4. Reheating Tips: When reheating, do it on the stove over low heat to prevent it from drying out. Add a little extra stock or water if necessary to keep the stew moist and rich. Stir it frequently to ensure even heating and to help those flavors meld together once again.
5. Don’t Forget the Garnishes: If you added fresh herbs or toppings like sour cream or yogurt before serving, save them for when you’re reheating. This keeps everything fresh and adds that perfect final touch to the dish.

What To Eat With Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Stew?

The stew itself is hearty and flavorful but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the meal even more:

1. Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of bread is always a winner with stew. Use it to soak up the savory broth. A thick slice of sourdough or a rustic baguette would be fantastic.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: For extra comfort, you can serve the stew over mashed potatoes. The creamy texture pairs wonderfully with the hearty meat and the rich sauce. Adding a touch of garlic and butter to the mashed potatoes takes it to another level.
3. Roasted Vegetables: If you want a side that’s light yet still filling, go for roasted vegetables. Roasting carrots, parsnips and Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness and adds a crunchy texture to balance the soft, stewed lamb.
4. Salad with a Tangy Dressing: A crisp, fresh salad can offer a nice contrast to the richness of the stew. Try a mix of arugula, spinach and some thinly sliced red onion, dressed with a lemony vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing will cut through the stew’s heaviness and refresh your palate between bites.
5. Polenta or Couscous: If you’re looking for a more unique option, serve the stew over soft polenta or couscous. Both have a slight graininess and absorb the stew’s sauce beautifully.
6. Wine Pairing: A full-bodied red wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah or Merlot, would complement the richness of the lamb. If you’re into something lighter, a Pinot Noir would also do well. The wine enhances the savory and earthy flavors in the stew.

FAQs

What Ingredients Do I Need For Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Stew?

You’ll need lamb, potatoes, carrots, onions, garlic, rosemary, red wine, and stock.

How Long Should I Cook Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Stew?

The stew should be cooked for about 2 to 2.5 hours on low heat for tender lamb.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Stew Ahead Of Time?

Yes! It actually tastes better the next day after the flavors have had time to develop.