Swedish Lamb Stew with Pears

Swedish Lamb Stew with Pears is one of those recipes that finds its way into my kitchen during the cold winter months. It feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, bringing comforting aromas that fill the home. I remember the first time I tried this dish; I was captivated by the way the flavors meld together, transforming simple ingredients like lamb, pears, and potatoes into a hearty meal that warms both body and soul. This stew is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, and each bite tells a story of tradition and care. It’s not just food; it’s a labor of love that brings everyone together.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Swedish Lamb Stew with Pears

The ingredients for Swedish Lamb Stew with Pears are foundational to making this dish truly special. Each element complements the others perfectly, creating a balance of flavors that’s simply mouthwatering. The star of the show is undoubtedly the lamb, which provides richness, while the pears bring a surprising sweetness.

• 4 pounds lamb shoulder meat, cut into chunks (if your butcher has some lamb bone chunks, you can throw those into the stew for more flavor)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 yellow onion
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 4 pears, peeled, cored, and halved
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 2/3 pound string beans, trimmed
• 6 cups water
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 sprig thyme
• 1 sprig parsley
• 1 bay leaf

Preparation Steps for Swedish Lamb Stew with Pears

When it comes to making Swedish Lamb Stew with Pears, I find joy in each step of the preparation. It’s a straightforward process that fills your home with inviting aromas. Let’s dive in and create a comforting dish that will leave you and your loved ones feeling satisfied.

1. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees. This step is crucial as it sets the stage for even cooking.
2. Season the lamb chunks generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy; this will enhance the flavors significantly.
3. In a large dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned lamb pieces in batches, browning them until they form a deep, golden crust, about 5 to 7 minutes per side. This step is key, as it locks in the juices for a tender stew.
4. Once browned, remove the lamb from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the chopped yellow onion and minced garlic. Stir and scrape any brown bits from the bottom of the pot, which are packed with flavor.
5. Cook the onions and garlic until they become translucent and fragrant, about 5 to 6 minutes. You want them to soften and develop a bit of color, which adds depth to the stew.
6. Return the browned lamb to the pot. Next, make an herb bouquet by tying the thyme, parsley, and bay leaf together with kitchen twine. This makes it easy to add flavor without dealing with the herbs later.
7. Add the herb bouquet, salt, pepper, and enough water to cover the contents. I used about 6 cups, but this can vary based on the size of your pot.
8. Cover the pot and place it in the preheated oven. Let it cook for an hour. This slow cooking will transform the lamb into tender bites of goodness.
9. After an hour, take the pot out and carefully add the pears, potatoes, and string beans. Stir gently to combine.
10. Cover the pot again and return it to the oven. Let it cook for an additional hour, or longer if needed. You’ll know it’s ready when the lamb is fork-tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
11. Once done, remove the dutch oven from the oven. Carefully take out the lamb and place it in the center of a serving dish. Surround it with the cooked vegetables and pears, creating a beautiful presentation.
12. Remove the herb bouquet from the sauce. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you could rice one of the potatoes and add it back to the cooking liquid or mix corn starch with cold water to thicken. Simmer until it reaches your desired consistency.
13. Serve the stew hot with the gravy poured over each serving. Enjoy!

How to Switch It Up

There are so many fun ways to make Swedish Lamb Stew with Pears your own! Whether you want to switch up the flavors or add a twist, here are some ideas to consider:

• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to include other root vegetables like carrots or parsnips for added sweetness and variety.
• Herb Options: Experiment with different herbs; rosemary or sage can create an entirely new flavor profile.
• Serving Style: Try serving the stew over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice for a delightful twist.
• Slow Cooker Version: If you’d like to use a slow cooker, brown the lamb first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.
• Freezing Tips: This stew freezes well! Just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer.
• Pairing Suggestions: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy, or a fresh garden salad for a lighter side.

Great Combinations for Swedish Lamb Stew with Pears

When it comes to serving Swedish Lamb Stew with Pears, the possibilities are endless! Here are some fantastic ideas to complement this hearty dish:

• Crusty Bread: A loaf of rustic bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful gravy. It’s a must-have on the table!
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside a platter of roasted seasonal vegetables for a colorful and nutritious addition.
• Fresh Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the stew.
• Festive Gatherings: This stew is ideal for family dinners, holiday feasts, or special occasions. It creates a warm, inviting atmosphere at the table.
• Winter Comfort: Perfect for a cozy night in during the colder months. It’s the ultimate comfort food!
• Spiced Apple Cider: Pair with a warm spiced apple cider for a delightful drink option that complements the flavors.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage. Just reheat gently!

FAQ

Conclusion

The unique combination of flavors in Swedish Lamb Stew with Pears makes it a dish that stands out on any dining table. Its comforting qualities and heartwarming essence are perfect for bringing people together. I encourage you to give it a try and share it with your loved ones; it just might become your new favorite winter recipe!

Swedish Lamb Stew with Pears

The ultimate comfort food, Swedish Lamb Stew with Pears combines tender lamb with sweet pears and hearty potatoes in a rich broth. This easy weeknight dinner is perfect for sharing and will warm you inside and out. Make it tonight for a delightful family meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 2 hours hrs

Total Time 2 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Swedish

Servings 8 servings

Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan
• Oven
• Peeler
• Saucepan

Ingredients

  

• 4 pounds lamb shoulder meat cut into chunks (if your butcher has some lamb bone chunks, you can throw those into the stew for more flavor)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 yellow onion
• 1 clove garlic minced
• 4 pears peeled, cored and halved
• 4 medium potatoes peeled and quartered
• 2/3 pound string beans trimmed
• 6 cups water
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 sprig thyme
• 1 sprig parsley
• 1 bay leaf

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 325 degrees. This step is crucial as it sets the stage for even cooking.
• Season the lamb chunks generously with salt and pepper. Don't be shy; this will enhance the flavors significantly.
• In a large dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned lamb pieces in batches, browning them until they form a deep, golden crust, about 5 to 7 minutes per side. This step is key, as it locks in the juices for a tender stew.
• Once browned, remove the lamb from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the chopped yellow onion and minced garlic. Stir and scrape any brown bits from the bottom of the pot, which are packed with flavor.
• Cook the onions and garlic until they become translucent and fragrant, about 5 to 6 minutes. You want them to soften and develop a bit of color, which adds depth to the stew.
• Return the browned lamb to the pot. Next, make an herb bouquet by tying the thyme, parsley, and bay leaf together with kitchen twine. This makes it easy to add flavor without dealing with the herbs later.
• Add the herb bouquet, salt, pepper, and enough water to cover the contents. I used about 6 cups, but this can vary based on the size of your pot.
• Cover the pot and place it in the preheated oven. Let it cook for an hour. This slow cooking will transform the lamb into tender bites of goodness.
• After an hour, take the pot out and carefully add the pears, potatoes, and string beans. Stir gently to combine.
• Cover the pot again and return it to the oven. Let it cook for an additional hour, or longer if needed. You'll know it's ready when the lamb is fork-tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
• Once done, remove the dutch oven from the oven. Carefully take out the lamb and place it in the center of a serving dish. Surround it with the cooked vegetables and pears, creating a beautiful presentation.
• Remove the herb bouquet from the sauce. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you could rice one of the potatoes and add it back to the cooking liquid or mix corn starch with cold water to thicken. Simmer until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Serve the stew hot with the gravy poured over each serving. Enjoy!

Notes

• Tip 1: Choosing Quality Lamb: Look for fresh, grass-fed lamb for the best flavor. A good cut will have a nice marbling of fat, which helps keep the meat juicy during cooking.
• Tip 2: Herb Bouquet Tip: Tying the herbs together not only makes it easier to remove them later but also allows the flavors to infuse the stew without leaving bits of herbs in the serving.
• Tip 3: Cooking Time Adjustment: Depending on your oven and the size of your lamb chunks, cooking times may vary. Always check for tenderness before serving.
• Tip 4: Leftover Storage: Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to revive the flavors.

Keyword easy winter stew, hearty lamb recipes, lamb stew with pears, Swedish lamb stew

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Meet Sophia Hayes

I founded YumRecettes to turn my messy, joyful kitchen experiments into something I could share. While I steer the ship, I am first and foremost a cook. I love tackling every type of recipe, from grandmother’s old classics to modern fusion dishes. For me, the magic isn’t in a specific type of food, but in the act of preparing it. I’m usually the one urging the team to try that “one last idea” that ends up making the dish perfect.