Irish Stew

I would like to claim “Honorary Irish Blood”. Even though my dad’s parents were born and raised in Sweden and Mom’s family is Norwegian through and through, when I visited Ireland, it fit like the most perfect LBD.

This poem by W.B. Yeats speaks volumes:

The Lake Isle of Innisfree

I will arise and go now, and go to Innisfree,
And a small cabin build there, of clay and wattles made;
Nine bean rows will I have there, a hive for the honey bee,
And live alone in the bee loud glade.

And I shall have some peace there, for peace comes dropping slow,
Dropping from the veils of the morning to where the cricket sings;
There midnight’s all a glimmer, and noon a purple glow,
And evening full of the linnet’s wings.

I will arise and go now, for always night and day
I hear lake water lapping with low sounds by the shore;
While I stand on the roadway, or on the pavements grey,
I hear it in the deep heart’s core.

What did I love so much about Ireland?

• The scenery – The Cliffs of Moher are among the most famous sights in the world. Almost 1,000 miles of coastline means beautiful views in every direction. There are hills and mountains, stone walls and sheep, and green, green, green.

• The history – Not only are there castles and ruins around every corner, but houses have been in the family for generations, cathedrals and universities from centuries ago, and people who have incredible strength of character because of their heritage.

• The people – We have dear friends who live in Belfast, Northern Ireland – the main reason for our visit. Everywhere we went, people were friendly and helpful. Some of our B&B hosts bent over backwards for us, and offered their friendship in priceless ways. Even shop keepers were helpful and fun to chat with.

• The language – The Irish definitely have cornered the market on cool accents. It took a little time to learn the lingo – some were more important to learn than others. The Sat Nav (GPS) was my best friend while driving on the left side of the road, shifting the 6-speed with my left hand. And we laughed ourselves silly over signs for a hurling competition (an ancient ball game, not a bulimia convention).

• The food – Oh my. The food. From family dinners with friends, breakfasts that truly satisfy, to Pub & Grubs with incredible dishes. And of course, Irish coffee.

As we wandered through Dublin city, we asked a young woman where she liked to eat lunch. She directed us to a pub that served some of the most amazing beef stew. Since going gluten free, I have switched from Guiness beer to using a GF beer in this stew. This can cook on the stove in about 90 minutes, or in the pressure cooker in much less time.

Begin with peeling and chopping all the veggies – potatoes, onion, carrots, celery, parsnips, turnips, and rutabaga, along with garlic.

Brown the stew meat with olive oil, then add all the remaining ingredients. Close up the pressure cooker, and cook on high for 15 minutes. (Remember that it will take a good 10 minutes to come up to pressure.)

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