What is Mary Berry Lamb Stew Recipe?
Mary Berry’s lamb stew is a hearty and comforting dish that involves slow-cooked lamb with vegetables, herbs, and a rich broth. It’s a delicious, warming recipe perfect for cooler weather.
What Goes Best with Mary Berry’s Lamb Stew Recipe?
- Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture pairs beautifully with the rich stew.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
- Rice or Couscous: A lighter option that balances the hearty stew.
- Steamed Vegetables: Carrots, green beans, or broccoli provide a fresh side.
- Polenta: Adds a creamy and slightly sweet contrast to the rich lamb flavors.
Ingredients
- 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) lamb shoulder or neck, cubed
- 2 large onions, chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons plain flour
- 1.2 liters (5 cups) lamb or beef stock
- 150 ml (1/2 cup) red wine (optional)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
How to Prepare Mary Berry’s Lamb Stew Recipe

Instructions
- Brown the Lamb:
- Heat olive oil in a large casserole or Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown the lamb cubes in batches, then set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In the same pan, add the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add Flour:
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw taste.
- Add Liquid:
- Gradually pour in the red wine (if using) and stock, stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add Lamb and Seasoning:
- Return the browned lamb to the pot. Add the bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer:
- Cover and let the stew simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the lamb is tender and the flavors are well combined.
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Notes
- Slow Cooking: The longer the stew simmers, the more flavorful it becomes. Lamb becomes very tender when slow-cooked.
- Make Ahead: The stew can be prepared a day ahead and reheated before serving. The flavors intensify over time.
- Wine Alternative: If you prefer not to use wine, simply add more stock or a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth.
How to Serve Mary Berry’s Lamb Stew Recipe
- With Mashed Potatoes: Ladle the stew over creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
- With Bread: Serve with crusty bread to mop up the delicious broth.
- With Polenta or Rice: Serve the stew over creamy polenta or rice to soak up the flavors.
- As a Standalone Dish: The stew is filling enough to serve on its own, with perhaps a simple side salad.
How to Reheat Mary Berry’s Lamb Stew Recipe
- Stovetop: Reheat the stew on low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
- Oven: Reheat in an ovenproof dish at 160°C (320°F) for 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
How to Store Leftovers of Mary Berry’s Lamb Stew Recipe
- In the Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- In the Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Mary Berry’s Lamb Stew Recipe
- Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
- Yes, brown the lamb and vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Can I use lamb chops instead of lamb shoulder?
- Lamb shoulder is ideal for slow cooking, but chops can be used for a shorter cooking time.
- Can I omit the wine?
- Yes, you can replace the wine with additional stock or balsamic vinegar for depth of flavor.
- Can I add potatoes to the stew?
- Yes, potatoes can be added for extra heartiness. Add them during the last hour of cooking.
- How do I thicken the stew?
- You can reduce the liquid by simmering uncovered or add a cornstarch slurry to thicken the broth.
- Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
- Yes, dried thyme or rosemary can be used in place of fresh herbs.
- How long can I store leftovers?
- The stew can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Can I use a different type of meat?
- Yes, beef or chicken can be substituted, though the cooking time may vary.
- Can I add other vegetables to the stew?
- Yes, root vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes can be added for extra flavor.
- Is it better to make the stew a day ahead?
- Yes, the flavors deepen if the stew is made a day in advance and reheated.
Nutritional Information of Mary Berry’s Lamb Stew Recipe (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~450 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg