Irish Sausage & Cabbage Stew

Introduction

Irish Sausage & Cabbage Stew is a comforting and hearty dish packed with rich flavors, perfect for chilly days. Combining savory sausages, tender cabbage, and a flavorful broth, this traditional Irish-inspired stew is easy to make and incredibly satisfying.

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

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the sausages and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the sausages from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same pot, add chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant.
2. Stir in the carrots and potatoes, cooking for another 3 minutes.

Step 3: Build the Stew Base

1. Stir in tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, mixing well.
2. Pour in the broth and stout beer (if using).
3. Add thyme, parsley, black pepper, salt, and the bay leaf.

Step 4: Simmer the Stew

1. Return the sausages to the pot and bring the stew to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Add chopped cabbage and continue cooking for another 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the bay leaf and discard.
2. Adjust seasoning if needed and garnish with fresh parsley.
3. 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.

Conclusion

Irish Sausage & Cabbage Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. Simple yet rich in taste, this one-pot meal will warm you up with every bite. Enjoy!

Would you like pairing suggestions or a slow cooker version?