Icelandic Lamb and Root Vegetable Stew with Barley
A hearty and comforting stew, this dish is a staple in Icelandic homes, featuring tender lamb, a medley of root vegetables, and wholesome barley. It's perfect for warming up on a cold day.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Lamb shoulder(bone-in, cut into chunks)
- 2 liters Water or lamb broth
- 1-2 tbsp Salt
- 50 g Pearl barley
- 300 g Rutabaga(peeled and chopped)
- 300 g Carrots(peeled and chopped)
- 400 g Potatoes(peeled and chopped)
- 1 medium Onion(chopped)
- 100 g Cabbage(roughly chopped)
- to taste Black pepper
- for garnish Fresh parsley
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Place the lamb chunks in a large pot and cover with water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, skimming off any foam that rises to the surface.
- 2
Add the pearl barley, chopped onion, rutabaga, carrots, and potatoes to the pot. Season with salt and pepper.
- 3
Continue to simmer for another 30-40 minutes, or until the lamb is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- 4
Add the chopped cabbage during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- 5
Remove the lamb from the pot, discard bones if any, and cut the meat into bite-sized pieces. Return the meat to the pot.
- 6
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. If the stew is too thin, you can simmer it uncovered for a few minutes to thicken.
- 7
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can brown the lamb pieces in a little oil before adding the liquid.
- ✓If pearl barley is not available, rolled oats can be used as a thickener.
- ✓This stew tastes even better the next day, allowing the flavors to meld.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips.
- A bay leaf can be added during simmering for extra aroma.
- For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of milk or cream just before serving.