There’s something undeniably magical about a warm bowl of stew on a chilly day, and that’s precisely why I adore my Irish Vegetarian Stew! This dish has a special place in my heart because it reminds me of family gatherings where laughter filled the air and the smell of savory stews wafted through the kitchen. Each bite takes me back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, where she’d make all her traditional dishes vibrant with fresh ingredients. Trust me when I say that this recipe is effortless yet delivers maximum flavor, turning a simple meal into a delightful experience.

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The Heartwarming Story Behind Irish Vegetarian Stew
The origins of Irish stew are rich and textured, deeply intertwined with the cultural heritage of Ireland. Traditionally made with meat, this vegetarian version pays homage to the classic while being kind to both the earth and our bodies. It beautifully showcases how vibrant vegetables can shine in a warm, comforting broth. I remember the first time I adapted this stew for a potluck with friends.
Everyone was pleasantly surprised by how hearty and filling a plant-based stew could be, proving that vegetarian meals can be just as satisfying as their meaty counterparts. I often turn to this recipe when I’m looking to cozy up or impress my guests. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just exploring plant-based meals, this stew invites everyone to share in its warmth and flavor.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to try my Creamy Vegetarian Mushroom Stroganoff for another delightful culinary experience!
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Irish Vegetarian Stew
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A hearty, plant-based Irish stew made with fresh vegetables like carrots, potatoes, peas, and green beans, simmered in a rich herb-infused broth. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium carrots, sliced
2 medium potatoes, diced
1 cup green beans, chopped
1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
1 bell pepper, diced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
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Prepare the base: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
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Sauté aromatics: Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, until onions are translucent.
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Cook root vegetables: Add sliced carrots and diced potatoes. Stir and cook for another 5 minutes.
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Add remaining vegetables: Stir in green beans, peas, and diced bell pepper for added texture and color.
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Add broth and seasonings: Pour in vegetable broth. Mix in tomato paste, soy sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Stir well.
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Simmer the stew: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender.
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Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
You can substitute vegetables as desired—try sweet potatoes, corn, or zucchini. For added protein, mix in chickpeas or lentils. This stew is perfect for freezing or enjoying as leftovers.
- Author: Eleanor Quin
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Irish
- Diet: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Why This Recipe Works
This Irish Vegetarian Stew works brilliantly for several reasons. First and foremost, the medley of vegetables provides not only a bursts of color but a harmonious blend of textures too. When simmered in a rich vegetable broth with seasonings, the flavors enhance and deepen, offering every forkful a delightful experience.
Fresh Ingredients
The key to a successful stew lies in using the freshest vegetables you can find. Ingredients like potatoes, carrots, green beans, and peas not only cook beautifully together but also pack a nutritious punch. Incorporating seasonal produce infuses your dish with heightened vibrancy and flavor. I always recommend visiting your local farmer’s market to pick the freshest seasonal veggies.
Simple Yet Flavorful Seasonings
I love how minimal seasoning enhances the natural flavors of the vegetables without overpowering them. The dried thyme and rosemary bring in aromatic notes that evoke warmth, while the soy sauce adds a soft umami finish. Together, these elements create a cozy taste that feels like a hug on a chilly evening. It’s proof that you don’t need complex ingredients to achieve something extraordinary.
Ease of Preparation
This recipe is truly accessible for cooks of all skill levels. It requires minimal chopping and prep work, making it perfect for a busy weeknight meal. With just one pot involved, clean-up is simplified, which is always a win in my book! The best part? It also makes great leftovers, as the flavors continue to meld while stored in the fridge. It’s a hearty meal that doesn’t demand too much of your precious time in the kitchen. If you’re curious about other easy one-pot meals, I recommend checking out my Comforting One-Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup!
To learn more about the health benefits of a plant-based diet, visit the mdanderson Blog.
Step-by-Step Instructions + Tips
Making Irish Vegetarian Stew is straightforward and enjoyable! Here’s how to prepare this delightful dish:
Gather Your Ingredients
Make sure you have all the ingredients ready before you start. This will make the cooking process feel smooth and quick. You’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Olive Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Onion | 1 large, chopped |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Carrots | 3 medium, sliced |
| Potatoes | 2 medium, diced |
| Green Beans | 1 cup, chopped |
| Peas | 1 cup (fresh or frozen) |
| Bell Pepper | 1, diced |
| Vegetable Broth | 4 cups |
| Tomato Paste | 1 tablespoon |
| Soy Sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Dried Thyme | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried Rosemary | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste |
| Fresh Parsley | For garnish |
Cooking the Stew
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. This will create a lovely base for your stew.
2. Sauté the onions and garlic for about 5 minutes or until the onions are translucent. This step builds a depth of flavor.
3. Add the sliced carrots and diced potatoes, cooking for another 5 minutes. Keep the vegetables moving in the pot for even cooking.
4. Stir in the green beans, peas, and diced bell pepper. These colorful veggies will add texture and nutrition to your stew.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth, followed by the tomato paste and soy sauce. Season with thyme and rosemary, ensuring all ingredients are mixed well.
6. Raise the heat to high, bringing the stew to a boil. This step activates the flavors!
7. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are tender.
8. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Taste-testing is key to achieving your desired flavor.
9. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm. You can serve this stew with a side of crusty bread for a heartier meal.

Variations & Serving Ideas
This Irish Vegetarian Stew is incredibly versatile! Here are some creative adaptations and serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Adapt Ingredients to Your Taste
Feel free to switch up the vegetables based on what you have on hand. For instance, sweet potatoes or zucchini can make delightful additions. Not a fan of green beans? Try broccoli or spinach! The beauty of a stew is that it’s your canvas.
| Alternative Ingredients | Substitutions |
|---|---|
| Carrots | Parsnips or turnips |
| Potatoes | Sweet potatoes or cauliflower |
| Peas | Chickpeas or corn |
| Bell Pepper | Poblano or jalapeño |
Serving Suggestions
Serve your stew in bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for added flavor and presentation. Enjoy it alongside some homemade Pumpkin Scones for a delightful afternoon or cozy evening.
Make it a Meal
To make your meal even heartier, consider adding quinoa or rice right into the stew. This addition transforms it into a complete meal rich in protein and fills you up even more. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can serve it over a baked potato or with a side of garlic bread.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy this Irish Vegetarian Stew as much as I do! It’s soothing, nourishing, and chock-full of goodness. Whether it’s a quiet dinner at home or a gathering with friends, this dish warms hearts and fills bellies.
This stew is perfect for meal prepping, so consider whipping up a larger batch to enjoy throughout the week. Since I’m a huge fan of leftovers, I’ve created different variations by adding spices or even a touch of cream for richness, a fantastic way to keep things exciting. If you’re looking for other light meals, check out my Creamy Vegetarian Mushroom Stroganoff
here for inspiration!
For more delicious recipes, don’t forget to take a look at my Pinterest page where I share an array of culinary delights, perfect for sparking your next kitchen adventure!
FAQ
What can I substitute for the soy sauce in this stew?
If you’re looking for a soy sauce substitute, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option. Alternatively, coconut aminos provides a similar flavor with less sodium and is often soy-free.
Can I freeze Irish Vegetarian Stew?
Absolutely! This stew freezes wonderfully. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container, and it can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Leftover Irish Vegetarian Stew can be stored in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave!
Can I add other vegetables or proteins to this stew?
Yes! Feel free to get creative with your vegetable choices. Adding chickpeas or lentils can increase the protein content without the need for meat, adding a spicy twist with a little chili powder could also elevate the dish.
Is this stew gluten-free?
This Irish Vegetarian Stew can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Just ensure that the vegetable broth you choose is also gluten-free for a safe meal.

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