Irish Stew

Being half Irish, I can't let a winter's eve go by without posting a nice Irish Stew recipe.  I found this one over in Allrecipes and can't wait to try it.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon and 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 2-3/4 pounds boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 1 1/2 inch pieces
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1-1/4 large onion, sliced
• 2-3/4 carrots, peeled and cut into large chunks
• 1-1/4 parsnip, peeled and cut into large chunks (optional)
• 5-1/3 cups water, or as needed
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 1 tablespoon and 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary (optional)
• 1-1/3 cups coarsely chopped leeks
• chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Heat oil over medium heat in a large stockpot or Dutch oven. Add lamb pieces and cook, stirring gently, until evenly browned. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Add the onion, carrots, and parsnips and cook gently alongside the meat for a few minutes. Stir in the water. Cover and bring to a boil before turning the heat down to low. Simmer for 1 hour or longer, depending on the cut of meat you used and if it is tender yet.
3. Stir in potatoes, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, before adding leeks and rosemary. Continue to simmer uncovered, until potatoes are tender but still whole. Serve piping hot in bowls garnished with fresh parsley.

Serves 8.