Slow Cooker Lamb Stew

There’s something so satisfying about coming home to a warm and hearty meal, especially when it’s a delightful Slow Cooker Lamb Stew. Picture this: the aroma of tender lamb simmering with crispy bacon and fresh vegetables wafting through your home. It’s like a hug in a bowl! With minimal effort required, you can set up your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day. This stew is rich, savory, and downright comforting—ideal for cold nights or any gathering with friends and family. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Let’s talk about why this Slow Cooker Lamb Stew is so special, how you can make it, and ways to customize it to your taste. Get ready for a cooking adventure that’s simple and rewarding!

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Why This Recipe Works

This Slow Cooker Lamb Stew takes all the traditional elements of a hearty stew and elevates them through slow cooking. The extended simmering process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in tender lamb with a rich, savory broth. Using a slow cooker means that you can set it and forget it, making it a practical choice for busy home cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Lamb Stew

There’s something utterly comforting about a steaming bowl of lamb stew. The combination of crispy bacon, tender lamb, and hearty vegetables creates a dish that’s not only satisfying but also reminiscent of home-cooked meals. Perfect for chilly evenings, this stew is a crowd-pleaser that brings family and friends together.

Ingredients

• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 3 lbs. boneless lamb shoulder, fat trimmed, cut into 1″ pieces
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 carrots, chopped
• 1 small white onion, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, chopped
• 4 Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
• 32 oz. beef broth, divided
• 3 tbsp coconut aminos or soy sauce
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 1/2 cup frozen peas

Preparing Your Slow Cooker Lamb Stew

Browning the Bacon for Flavor

Begin by adding the chopped bacon to a large, deep skillet. Cook it over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. The bacon adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and transfer it to your slow cooker.

Preparing the Lamb

In a large bowl, toss the lamb pieces with all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper. This light coating will help achieve a great sear on the meat. Plus, it locks in moisture, which is essential for that juicy texture.

Searing the Lamb

Using the same skillet, add the seasoned lamb in batches to brown it evenly. Aim for a deep golden color, about 4-5 minutes per side. This is where the magic begins. Once browned, transfer all the lamb to the slow cooker.

Adding the Vegetables

To the slow cooker, add the chopped carrots, diced onion, chopped garlic, and peeled, diced potatoes. This colorful mix will enhance the stew’s flavor and texture. The vegetables soak up all those yummy juices, adding to the richness.

Mixing the Broth

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of beef broth, coconut aminos (or soy sauce), and tomato paste until smooth. Pour this mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker. This step creates a luscious base for your stew.

Finishing the Stew

Add the remaining beef broth, water, dried thyme, salt, and bay leaves to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine all ingredients. It’s starting to look like a masterpiece already.

Cooking the Stew

Cover the slow cooker with a lid. Cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours or on LOW for 7-8 hours, allowing the flavors to develop and the lamb to become tender. As it cooks, the house fills with comforting aromas that you won’t be able to resist.

Adding the Peas

In the last hour of cooking, add the frozen peas to the stew. Stir to incorporate and cover until done. The peas add a pop of color and sweetness that brightens the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Slow Cooker Lamb Stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice to soak up the delicious gravy. Garnish with fresh herbs for an added touch. This stew is perfect served in deep bowls for everyone to enjoy.

Tips for Success

• If you’re short on time, go for pre-chopped vegetables.
• Experiment with herbs like rosemary or parsley for added flavor.
• Adjust seasoning levels to suit your taste preferences.

Variations

• Substitute lamb with beef or chicken for different flavor profiles.
• Swap in root vegetables such as parsnips or turnips for variety.
• For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This stew also freezes well for up to 3 months; just reheat thoroughly before serving. It’s the perfect meal prep dish!

Pairing Ideas

Pair your Slow Cooker Lamb Stew with a robust red wine like Merlot or a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc. A side salad of mixed greens with vinaigrette completes the meal nicely, balancing the richness of the stew.

FAQs

1. Can I use lamb shanks instead of shoulder?
Yes, lamb shanks will work beautifully for a more tender texture.

2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

3. How do I reheat the stew?
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, or use the microwave until warm.

4. Is it necessary to brown the meat?
Browning adds depth of flavor, but you can skip it if you’re short on time.

5. Can I prepare this the night before?
Absolutely! You can chop and assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker and store it in the fridge overnight. Just start cooking it in the morning.

This Slow Cooker Lamb Stew is a perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a comforting weekend meal. With its rich flavors and tender ingredients, it’s designed to impress and satisfy. Invite family and friends over to enjoy this delightful recipe that brings warmth and comfort to the table.

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