Vegan Irish Stew

If you’re looking for a cozy, hearty meal that warms you from the inside out, you’ve come to the right place! This Vegan Irish Stew is one of my all-time favorites. It’s packed with tender vegetables, and depending on your mood, you can choose to add vegan beef or mushrooms for that satisfying bite. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this stew is like a warm hug in a bowl!

What makes this recipe even more special is how versatile it is. You can whip it up on the stove, in an Instant Pot, or let it simmer away in your slow cooker. No matter how you make it, the result is always delicious and comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pot wonder: Everything cooks together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze!
• Hearty and filling: With chunky vegetables and a rich gravy, this stew satisfies even the hungriest of appetites.
• Make-ahead magic: It tastes even better the next day! Prep it ahead of time and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the sweet flavors of the veggies and the fun texture of the dumplings!
• Customizable: Switch up the ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients to create this delightful Vegan Irish Stew. You’ll be amazed at how these everyday items come together to create something truly special!

For the Stew

• 2 tablespoons oil (or use water for oil-free)
• 9 oz (255 grams) optional vegan beef or portobello mushrooms
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 large carrots, cut into ½ inch chunky pieces
• 2 ribs celery, diced
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons all purpose flour (or cornstarch)
• 330 mls (11 oz bottle) Guinness
• 1 medium (about 800 grams / 28 oz) rutabaga/swede, cut into chunky pieces
• 4 large (about 650g / 23 oz) potatoes, cut into large chunks (each potato into about 6 pieces)
• ¼ head green cabbage, shredded
• 4 cups (960 mls) vegetable stock
• ¼ cup (60 mls) soy sauce (or Tamari)
• 2 teaspoons sea salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp white or cane sugar
• 2 large bay leaves
• 2 x 4 inch sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 2 x 4 inch sprigs fresh rosemary (or 1½ teaspoon dried)
• vegan dumplings

Variations

This Vegan Irish Stew is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to put your spin on it with these tasty variations:

• Swap the protein: Use lentils instead of vegan beef or mushrooms for a different texture and flavor.
• Add more greens: Toss in some kale or spinach just before serving for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Mix up the veggies: Try adding parsnips or sweet potatoes for a unique twist on traditional flavors.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat in your stew!

How to Make Vegan Irish Stew

Step 1: Sear Your Protein

In a large Dutch oven or soup pot that holds at least 6 quarts, add the oil and place over high heat. When it’s really hot, add your choice of vegan beef or mushrooms. Sear them until golden on all sides. This step adds rich flavor to your stew as those lovely brown bits stick to the pot!

Step 2: Sweat Your Veggies

Turn down the heat to medium and add onions, carrots, and celery right into that same pot—no need to clean it! Stir them around and let them sweat down until they are softening. Adding garlic here will fill your kitchen with warmth as it cooks down beautifully.

Step 3: Create Your Base

After about 30 seconds, sprinkle in the flour and stir well so everything gets coated. Cook this mixture for another minute or two; this helps eliminate any raw flour taste that can linger.

Step 4: Pour in Your Liquid

Now comes the fun part! Slowly pour in your Guinness while stirring continuously. This will help break up any lumps as you mix everything together—don’t worry about small lumps; they’ll work themselves out.

Step 5: Add Veggies and Seasonings

Toss in the rutabaga/swede, potatoes, cabbage, stock, soy sauce, salt, pepper, sugar, and herbs. Give everything a good stir to combine those amazing flavors.

Step 6: Let It Simmer

Bring everything slowly to a boil while stirring frequently. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered until those potatoes are soft and starting to break down—about 45 to 50 minutes should do it!

Step 7: Finish It Off

About 10 minutes before serving time, gently fold in your seared protein back into the pot. If you’ve used fresh herbs earlier on, don’t forget to pick out their stalks before serving.

And there you have it—your very own comforting Vegan Irish Stew ready to be shared with family and friends! Enjoy every delicious spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Irish Stew

Creating the perfect Vegan Irish Stew is about more than just following the recipe; it’s about understanding the ingredients and techniques that elevate your dish. Here are some tips to help you make an even heartier and more flavor-packed stew:

• Choose fresh vegetables: Using fresh, seasonal produce ensures your stew is bursting with flavor and nutrients, making each bite a delightful experience.

• Sear your protein well: Whether you’re using vegan beef or mushrooms, taking the time to sear them until golden brown adds depth to the overall flavor of the stew. This step creates a rich base that enhances the final dish.

• Don’t rush the simmering: Allowing your stew to simmer uncovered for up to an hour helps develop a robust flavor profile as the spices and herbs meld together. The longer you let it simmer, the more deliciously complex your stew will become.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Every palate is different, so don’t hesitate to tweak the salt, pepper, or other seasonings as you cook. Taste as you go for a stew that meets your personal preferences.

• Experiment with herbs: Fresh herbs can really transform this dish. Feel free to mix in different herbs like parsley or oregano based on what you have available, adding layers of flavor that complement the heartiness of the stew.

How to Serve Vegan Irish Stew

Serving up your Vegan Irish Stew can be just as exciting as cooking it! With its vibrant colors and rich aroma, this dish is sure to impress. Here’s how to present it beautifully while making it even more appealing.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of bright green parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that contrasts wonderfully with the hearty tones of the stew.
• Crusty bread on top: Placing a slice of warm, crusty bread on top not only looks inviting but also offers a delightful texture contrast when served.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the thick gravy of your stew. The buttery garlic flavor complements the richness of the dish beautifully.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad made with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew. It cleanses the palate between bites.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes serve as an excellent side, soaking up all that delicious gravy from your stew while adding another layer of comfort food bliss.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These slightly caramelized sprouts add a touch of sweetness and crunch that pairs perfectly with the soft texture of the vegan stew.

By incorporating these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll create not only a satisfying meal but also an unforgettable dining experience. Enjoy every warm bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Irish Stew is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy hearty, comforting meals throughout the week. You can prepare it in advance and store it for quick lunches or dinners.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Ensure you label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Let the stew cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best quality, consume within 1-2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Have questions about making this delicious Vegan Irish Stew? Here are some answers!

Can I use different vegetables in my Vegan Irish Stew?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add any vegetables you love. Root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes work wonderfully too!

What can I use instead of Guinness in Vegan Irish Stew?

If you prefer not to use Guinness, try using a non-alcoholic stout or a rich vegetable broth for a similar deep flavor without alcohol.

How long does Vegan Irish Stew last in the fridge?

Your Vegan Irish Stew will last up to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Is this Vegan Irish Stew suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This stew is fantastic for meal prep. It stores well and tastes even better after flavors meld together.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Vegan Irish Stew! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly day, filled with wholesome goodness that brings everyone together. Enjoy every flavorful bite, and feel free to share your experience with me—I’d love to hear how your version turned out!