Hearty Mutton Stew: A Comforting and Flavorful Recipe

Introduction: 

Mutton stew is a timeless dish that combines tender pieces of mutton with a rich, flavorful broth and an array of vegetables. This hearty stew is perfect for cold weather, providing warmth and comfort with every spoonful. Slow-cooked to perfection, mutton stew allows the meat to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully. Whether served with crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes, this mutton stew is sure to become a family favorite. Follow this recipe to create a delicious and satisfying mutton stew that will impress your loved ones.

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Ingredients:

For the Stew:

2 pounds mutton (bone-in or boneless), cut into chunks

2 tablespoons olive oil or ghee

2 large onions, finely chopped

3-4 cloves garlic, minced

2 large carrots, peeled and sliced

2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed

2 celery stalks, chopped

1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)

1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)

4 cups beef or chicken broth

1 cup red wine (optional)

2 tablespoons tomato paste

2 bay leaves

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

Salt to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Mutton:

Season the mutton chunks with salt and pepper.

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or ghee over medium-high heat.

Add the mutton in batches, browning the pieces on all sides. Remove the browned mutton and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics:

In the same pot, add the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant.

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes to enhance the flavor.

Add the Vegetables:

Add the sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, and chopped celery to the pot. Stir well to combine with the onions and garlic.

Deglaze the Pot:

Pour in the red wine (if using) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the wine reduces slightly.

Combine and Cook:

Return the browned mutton to the pot.

Add the diced tomatoes, beef or chicken broth, bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, and ground black pepper.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the mutton is tender and the flavors have melded together.

Add the Peas:

About 15 minutes before serving, add the green peas to the stew. Let them cook until heated through.

Adjust Seasoning and Serve:

Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Remove the bay leaves before serving.

Ladle the mutton stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

Tips:

For a thicker stew, you can mash a few of the potato pieces and stir them back into the stew.

If you prefer a spicier stew, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper.

Serve with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious broth.

Conclusion: 

Mutton stew is a comforting and hearty dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. With its tender mutton, flavorful broth, and assortment of vegetables, this stew is perfect for family dinners or special gatherings. Enjoy this classic recipe and share the rich, savory flavors of mutton stew with your loved ones, creating lasting memories around the dinner table.