Vegan Irish Stew

If you’re looking for a cozy and hearty meal to warm your soul, then this Vegan Irish Stew is just what you need! It’s the perfect dish for those chilly evenings when you want something comforting but also wholesome. This stew is not only loaded with tender vegetables but also has an incredibly rich flavor that makes it feel like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re serving it up on a busy weeknight or bringing it to a family gathering, this recipe is sure to impress everyone around the table.

What I love most about this Vegan Irish Stew is its versatility. You can whip it up on the stove, use an Instant Pot, or let it simmer gently in a slow cooker. Regardless of how you prepare it, the result is always a deliciously satisfying dish that brings everyone together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Hearty and Filling: Packed with chunky vegetables and plant-based protein, this stew will keep you satisfied.
  • Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal fuss, you can have this stew ready in no time.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—it’s even better the next day!
  • Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the comforting flavors and textures in this dish.
  • Customizable: You can easily adapt the ingredients to fit what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.
Vegan

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that make this Vegan Irish Stew oh-so-delicious! You’ll find everything you need right in your pantry or local grocery store.

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 (or non-alcoholic stout)
  • 1 medium rutabaga/swede (about 800 grams / 28 oz), cut into chunky pieces
  • 4 large potatoes (about 650g / 23 oz), 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 tablespoon 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 teaspoons dried)
  • vegan dumplings

Variations

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have at home.

  • Swap the protein: Instead of vegan beef, try using lentils for added nutrition and texture.
  • Add more greens: Throw in some kale or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra nutrient boost.
  • Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños if you like a bit of heat in your stew.
  • Change the veggies: Use whatever root vegetables are in season—turnips, parsnips, or even sweet potatoes work beautifully!

How to Make Vegan Irish Stew

Step 1: Sear the 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. Searing them until golden adds depth to their flavor. Once they’re nicely browned, scoop them out and set aside; we’ll add them back later!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Turn down the heat to medium and toss in the onions, carrots, and celery right into that same pot—don’t clean it! Those tasty bits stuck on the bottom are full of flavor. Let them sweat down until they start to soften and color a bit before adding garlic. Garlic adds an aromatic punch that makes everything better!

Step 3: Thicken It Up

After about 30 seconds with garlic in there, sprinkle in your flour. Stir it around until everything is coated; let it cook for a minute to remove any raw flour taste. This step helps thicken our stew later on!

Step 4: Add Liquid Gold

Now pour in your Guinness slowly while stirring—it’ll create a rich base for our gravy. Don’t fret about small lumps; they’ll smooth out as we continue cooking.

Step 5: Load Up with Veggies

Add rutabaga/swede, potatoes, cabbage, vegetable stock, soy sauce, salt, pepper, sugar, and herbs into the pot. Give everything a good stir! We want all those flavors to mingle together beautifully.

Step 6: Simmer Away

Bring your stew slowly to a boil while stirring frequently. Once boiling, reduce to medium-low heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 45 to 50 minutes until those potatoes are soft and starting to break down—this thickens our gravy wonderfully! Feel free to let it go longer if you’d like; just cover with a lid if you’re stepping away.

Step 7: Finish Strong

About ten minutes before serving time, add back those lovely seared vegan beef or mushrooms from earlier into your bubbling stew. Give everything another stir so every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 8: Serve Up!

Before serving up bowls of goodness for everyone at your table, be sure to fish out any herb stalks if you’ve used fresh ones. Then ladle into bowls hot from the stove—enjoy every delicious bite together!

And there you have it—a delightful Vegan Irish Stew that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Irish Stew

Making a perfect Vegan Irish Stew is all about the little details that can elevate your dish from good to great. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your stew is a comforting delight!

  • Sear for Flavor: Searing the vegan beef or mushrooms creates a rich, caramelized flavor that adds depth to your stew. Don’t skip this step, as it greatly enhances the overall taste.

  • Use Fresh Herbs: Incorporating fresh thyme and rosemary gives the stew an aromatic lift. If you have dried herbs on hand, they will work too, but fresh herbs provide a more vibrant flavor profile.

  • Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker gravy, allow the stew to simmer longer or mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot. This will naturally thicken the sauce without needing to add anything extra.

  • Let it Rest: Allowing your stew to sit for at least 15 minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld beautifully. It also makes serving easier!

  • Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to swap in other seasonal vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes. They’ll add different textures and flavors that keep each batch unique!

How to Serve Vegan Irish Stew

A hearty bowl of Vegan Irish Stew is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some creative ideas on how to present this comforting dish.

Garnishes

  • Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
  • Cracked Black Pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper right before serving enhances the flavors and offers a slight kick.
  • Vegan Sour Cream: A dollop of vegan sour cream can provide a creamy contrast that complements the savory stew.

Side Dishes

  • Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping. A nice baguette or sourdough loaf is perfect for soaking up every bit of that delicious gravy!
  • Simple Green Salad: A light green salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette balances out the richness of the stew and adds a refreshing crunch.
  • Mashed Potatoes: For an extra comfort food experience, creamy mashed potatoes can be served alongside or even underneath the stew.
  • Roasted Root Vegetables: Roasted carrots, turnips, and parsnips bring sweetness and texture that pair perfectly with your hearty stew.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to create an unforgettable Vegan Irish Stew experience! Enjoy every bite!

Vegan

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Irish Stew is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and save it for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty and comforting.

Storing Leftovers

  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • Enjoy within 3-4 days for the best flavor and freshness.

Freezing

  • Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
  • Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal taste.
  • To prevent freezer burn, ensure the container is tightly sealed or use vacuum-sealed bags.

Reheating

  • Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
  • Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely to allow steam to escape, heating in 1-minute increments until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious Vegan Irish Stew:

Can I make Vegan Irish Stew without vegan beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute vegan beef with mushrooms or simply load it with more vegetables. The stew will still be hearty and flavorful!

How do I make Vegan Irish Stew gluten-free?

To make this Vegan Irish Stew gluten-free, use gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch as a thickener and check that your vegetable stock and soy sauce (or Tamari) are gluten-free.

What can I serve with Vegan Irish Stew?

This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or even a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

How long does Vegan Irish Stew last in the fridge?

Your leftovers will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just make sure to store them properly!

Can I add different vegetables to my Vegan Irish Stew?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative with seasonal vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, or even peas for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Irish Stew is not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug on a chilly day. Full of nutritious ingredients and rich flavors, it’s sure to bring comfort to your table. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do—it’s perfect for sharing with family or savoring during quiet moments at home. Happy cooking!

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Vegan Irish Stew

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Indulge in the comforting warmth of this Vegan Irish Stew, a hearty dish that brings together tender vegetables and rich flavors, perfect for cozy evenings. This one-pot meal is not only satisfying but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its versatile ingredients and customizable options, you can create a delightful stew that everyone will love. Plus, it’s great for meal prep—make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!

  • Author: Eleanor
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Irish

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons oil (or use water for oil-free)
  • 9 oz (255 grams) 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)
  • 4 cups (960 mls) vegetable stock
  • ¼ cup (60 mls) soy sauce (or Tamari)
  • 1 medium rutabaga/swede (about 800 grams / 28 oz), cut into chunky pieces
  • 4 large potatoes (about 650g / 23 oz), cut into large chunks (each potato into about 6 pieces)
  • ¼ head green cabbage, shredded
  • 2 teaspoons sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon 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 teaspoons dried)
  • vegan dumplings

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a large pot over high heat. Sear vegan beef or mushrooms until golden brown, then set aside.
  2. In the same pot, reduce heat to medium and sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened. Add garlic.
  3. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to thicken.
  4. Gradually add vegetable stock while stirring to create a smooth base.
  5. Incorporate rutabaga, potatoes, cabbage, soy sauce, salt, pepper, sugar, and herbs; stir well.
  6. Bring to a boil then simmer uncovered for 45-50 minutes until potatoes are tender.
  7. Return seared vegan beef or mushrooms to the pot 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 43g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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