Irish Sausage & Cabbage Stew
Ingredients
For the Stew:
1 lb Irish sausages (or any high-quality pork sausage)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
3 carrots (peeled and sliced)
3 medium potatoes (cubed)
½ head green cabbage (chopped)
4 cups beef or chicken broth
1 cup Irish stout beer (optional for depth of flavor)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 bay leaf
For Garnish:
Chopped fresh parsley
Crusty bread (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Sausages
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the sausages and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
Remove the sausages from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant.
Stir in the carrots and potatoes, cooking for another 3 minutes.
Step 3: Build the Stew Base
Stir in tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, mixing well.
Pour in the broth and stout beer (if using).
Add thyme, parsley, black pepper, salt, and the bay leaf.
Step 4: Simmer the Stew
Return the sausages to the pot and bring the stew to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
Add chopped cabbage and continue cooking for another 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the bay leaf and discard.
Adjust seasoning if needed and garnish with fresh parsley.
Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.
Tips & Variations
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for heat.
Meaty Twist: Mix in smoked bacon or ham for extra richness.
Vegetarian Option: Swap sausages for plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth.