Hearty Vegan Irish Stew (One-Pot Vegan Comfort Food)

Warm up your kitchen and your hearts with this delightful Hearty Vegan Irish Stew! Bursting with chunky, sweet vegetables and a deep, rich flavor thanks to the magic of Guinness, this one-pot wonder is your new go-to for cozy nights in. Imagine a bubbling pot filled with tender carrots, earthy potatoes, and savory herbs, all coming together in a thick, luscious gravy that wraps you in comfort like a soft blanket. Get ready to dig in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Hearty Vegan Irish Stew is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Here’s why you’ll adore it:
– Big, Bold Flavors: The combination of fresh herbs and Guinness creates a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
– Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or meal prep—everyone will be coming back for seconds!
– Flexible & Fast: Cook it on the stovetop, in an Instant Pot, or a slow cooker. You choose your adventure!
– Wholesome Goodness: Packed with nutrient-rich veggies and plant-based protein, it’s a dish you can feel good about.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather the stars of this hearty show! Each ingredient brings something special to the table, but don’t overlook the flavor game-changer: Guinness! It adds a deep richness that elevates this stew to a whole new level.

– 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
– 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 teaspoon dried)
– Vegan dumplings (for an extra touch of heartiness!)

*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*

Variations

This Hearty Vegan Irish Stew is incredibly customizable! Here are some fun ideas to put your spin on it:
– Go Gluten-Free: Substitute the flour with cornstarch, ensuring a gluten-free delight for everyone to enjoy.
– Add Extra Protein: Toss in some lentils or chickpeas for an extra hearty boost!
– Make it Spicier: Kick up the heat with some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
– Swap the Dressing: Try adding a splash of red wine or a different stout for a unique flavor twist.
– Colorful Additions: Add in a rainbow of vegetables like bell peppers or peas for an extra pop of color!

How to Make Hearty Vegan Irish Stew

Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive into creating this delicious stew step by step!

Step 1: Heat the Oil

In a large Dutch oven or soup pot (that holds at least 6 quarts / 5.7 litres), add the oil and place over high heat.

Step 2: Sear the Meat Substitute

When the oil is really hot, add the vegan beef or portobello mushrooms. Sear them in the pan until golden brown on all sides. Once done, scoop them out and set them aside on a plate.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Lower the heat to medium, and in the same pot (don’t clean it—those flavor bits are gold!), add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. If your pot needs a little more oil, drizzle a splash in! Let these veggies sweat until they start to color, then toss in the minced garlic.

Step 4: Add the Flour

After about 30 seconds, sprinkle in the flour, stirring until everything is coated. Let it cook for a minute or two, allowing the raw flour flavor to disappear. If you’re using cornstarch, don’t worry if it gets a bit gloopy; it will all come together!

Step 5: Pour in the Guinness

Slowly pour in the Guinness, stirring continuously to break up any lumps. Don’t stress over tiny lumps—they’ll disappear as the stew cooks!

Step 6: Mix in the Veggies and Stock

Add the rutabaga, potatoes, cabbage, vegetable stock, soy sauce, salt, pepper, sugar, bay leaves, and herbs. Give everything a good stir to combine.

Step 7: Bring to a Boil

Bring your stew slowly to a boil, stirring frequently, then immediately reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and the gravy thickens—about 45-50 minutes. If you want to simmer longer, just cover it with a lid and turn the heat to low!

Step 8: Stir in the Meat Substitute

About 10 minutes before serving, add the vegan beef or mushrooms back into the pot and give it a stir.

Step 9: Final Touches

If you used fresh herbs, remember to pick out the stalks before serving your delightful stew!

Pro Tips for Making Hearty Vegan Irish Stew

– Sear for Flavor: Don’t skip the searing step—it adds an incredible depth to your stew!
– Use Fresh Herbs: If possible, opt for fresh thyme and rosemary; they’ll make your stew sing with flavor!
– Simmer Longer for More Flavor: If you have the time, let it simmer longer. The flavors deepen beautifully with extra cooking time.
– Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings as you cook—everyone’s taste preferences are different!

How to Serve Hearty Vegan Irish Stew

Garnishes

Elevate your stew with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor!

Side Dishes

Serve alongside crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving your stew in individual bowls topped with vegan dumplings. It’s a delightful way to showcase this cozy dish!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

This stew freezes beautifully! Transfer it to a freezer-safe container, and it will last for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave some space for expansion!

Reheating

Reheat in a pot over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of vegetable stock if it thickens too much. It’s just as delicious the second time around!

FAQs

Can I use a different beer?
Absolutely! Any stout or dark beer can work well in this recipe.

Is this recipe spicy?
Not at all! It’s quite mild, but feel free to add spices if you prefer a kick!

How do I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free beer and replace the flour with cornstarch for thickening.

Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes! It’s even better the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Gather your loved ones around a bubbling pot of this Hearty Vegan Irish Stew, and let the cozy aromas fill your home! With its hearty ingredients and soul-warming flavors, this stew is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. So roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a go—you’re going to love every savory bite! Happy cooking!