Navarin d’Agneau is a classic French stew made with tender lamb, aromatic vegetables, and flavorful herbs. This hearty dish is perfect for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening. The name “navarin” comes from the French word for turnip, but this recipe usually doesn’t include any turnips. Instead, it features potatoes and carrots, which add sweetness and texture to the stew.
Ingredients
For 4 portions, you will need:
- 1 kg lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 onions, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1 cup red wine
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp flour
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Season lamb with salt and pepper, and brown in batches until well-seared on all sides. Remove from pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes. Add flour and tomato paste, and cook for another minute.
- Deglaze the pot with red wine, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom. Add chicken stock, thyme, bay leaves, and lamb, and bring to a simmer.
- Cover the pot and transfer to the oven. Cook for 1 1/2 hours.
- Add the carrots and potatoes to the pot, and cook for another hour, or until the lamb is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes. Serve hot with a slice of bread.
Vegetarian/Vegan Version
To make a vegetarian or vegan version of Navarin d’Agneau, you can substitute the lamb with seitan or chickpeas. Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock, and skip the red wine if you prefer. You can also add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or green beans, to make the stew heartier.
Gluten-free Version
To make a gluten-free version of Navarin d’Agneau, use a gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the stew. Make sure your chicken stock and tomato paste are also gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
Navarin d’Agneau pairs well with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or rice. You can also garnish it with fresh thyme leaves, parsley, or chives for a pop of color and flavor. This stew is even better the next day, so feel free to make a big batch and save some leftovers for later.
Conclusion
Navarin d’Agneau is a classic French stew that is easy to make and full of flavor. With tender lamb, aromatic vegetables, and herbs, this dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home. Whether you’re a fan of French cuisine or just looking for a hearty and comforting meal, give this recipe a try and savor the rich flavors of this delicious stew.
FAQ
What is Navarin d’Agneau?
Navarin d’Agneau is a French lamb stew made with lamb shoulder, vegetables, and a flavorful broth. It is traditionally served with crusty bread or potatoes.
What type of lamb should I use for Navarin d’Agneau?
You should use lamb shoulder for Navarin d’Agneau. This cut of meat is perfect for slow-cooking and will become tender and flavorful in the stew.
Can I use other types of meat instead of lamb?
While Navarin d’Agneau is traditionally made with lamb, you can use other types of meat such as beef or veal. However, the flavor and texture of the dish will be different.
How long does it take to make Navarin d’Agneau?
Navarin d’Agneau is a slow-cooked dish that takes at least 2-3 hours to make. However, the longer you cook it, the more tender and flavorful the meat will become.
Can I make Navarin d’Agneau in advance?
Yes, you can make Navarin d’Agneau in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. In fact, the flavors will develop even more if you let it sit overnight.
What vegetables should I use in Navarin d’Agneau?
The traditional vegetables used in Navarin d’Agneau are carrots, onions, and potatoes. However, you can also add other vegetables such as turnips, peas, or green beans.
How should I serve Navarin d’Agneau?
Navarin d’Agneau is traditionally served with crusty bread or potatoes. You can also serve it with a side salad or some steamed vegetables.
Can I freeze Navarin d’Agneau?
Yes, you can freeze Navarin d’Agneau for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container and freezing.
What type of wine should I pair with Navarin d’Agneau?
Navarin d’Agneau pairs well with a variety of red wines such as Pinot Noir, Syrah, or Merlot. You can also pair it with a full-bodied white wine such as Chardonnay.
Can I make Navarin d’Agneau in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make Navarin d’Agneau in a slow cooker. Just follow the recipe as directed but cook it on low for 6-8 hours instead of on the stovetop.
