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Nuts and Twigs » Recipes » Vegan Soups & Stews

Classic Vegan Irish Stew Recipe

Published: Feb 21, 2024 · Modified: Jan 5, 2025 by Regi Pearce · This post may contain affiliate links · 2 Comments

Here's a classic Irish recipe that is delicious and brings a bit of Irish charm to your table - Vegan Irish Stew. Traditionally, this stew is made with lamb or beef, but we swap those ingredients with plant-based goodness that still gives that comforting, home-cooked feel we all crave. And it's all in one pot!

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classic vegan Irish stew in a bowl; top view

I titled this recipe a "Classic Vegan Irish Stew," but let's not get it twisted — it's not that the OG Irish stew is vegan. We call it classic because it's the same warm, fuzzy feeling of the classic, just strutting its stuff in vegan boots. Classic in soul, vegan in spirit.

I might not have the luck of the Irish running through my veins, but this vegan beef stew is inspired by my husband's ⅛ or so, Irish roots. Back when meat was on his menu for St Patrick's Day, he'd whip up a hearty Irish stew.

But soon after he went vegan, I gave the stew a plant-based makeover so he could still taste the same flavors without the meat. It has become a low-calorie, healthy stew we all enjoy.

For other great stews and vegan recipes, try Lebanese Inspired Vegan Fasolia (White Bean Stew), Vegan Sweet Potato and Peanut Stew, and Easy Lemony White Bean Soup With Rigatoni.

Jump to:
  • Traditional Irish Stew vs Vegan Irish Stew
  • Ingredients
  • Variations
  • How To Make Classic Vegan Irish Stew
  • Top Tips
  • Serving Suggestions
  • Vegan Irish Stew FAQS
  • More Vegan International Recipes
  • Classic Vegan Irish Stew Recipe
  • Comments

Traditional Irish Stew vs Vegan Irish Stew

Traditional Irish stew, or “stobhach,” was the ultimate comfort food born out of necessity. Back in the day, folks made do with what they had. The senior citizens of the flock, aka mutton (insert sad emoji), had lived full lives grazing the lush fields before landing in the pot.

Simmered with potatoes (because, let’s be honest, no Irish dish skips spuds), onions, and water, it was simple, hearty, and practical. Over time, beef and lamb stepped in for mutton, but the stew’s soul stayed the same.

Fast forward to today, and vegan Irish stew steps in with a happy emoji and a modern, plant-loving twist. It swaps the meat for hearty veggies like mushrooms, carrots, and parsnips while keeping the rich flavors and comforting vibe intact.

With vegetable stock as its base and classic herbs like thyme and rosemary, this version honors tradition while shouting, “Hey, I want more plants, less meat!” And don’t worry—potatoes still take center stage, because some things are just too good to change.

Ingredients

Here is a sneak peek into the cabinet to see pretty basic ingredients. See the recipe post for quantities.

ingredients for Vegan Irish Stew in bowls; top view
  • Mushrooms - Adds an umami depth in place of meat. Baby bella mushrooms work well.
  • Vegetable Broth - Use Better than Boullion base paste to control the flavor easily. They have a vegan beef broth alternative that fits well into the flavor profile of this stew.
  • Potatoes - choose a variety that holds up well during cooking, like Yukon Gold or small potatoes
  • Vegan Worcestershire Sauce - regular Worcestershire is not vegan. Many major grocery chains carry vegan Worcestershire.

Notes on Beer

Many people use a stout beer, usually Guinness - because it's vegan. It adds a rich depth of flavor, thanks to its roasted barley notes, alongside hints of chocolate, coffee, and caramel for complexity.

However, stout's deep and rich flavor isn't everyone's cup of tea. And if you don't like the taste of the beer in the bottle, you won't like it in this stew. While you can use any beer, here are some alternatives if you don't want stout beer.

  • Porter - This is probably the closest alternative to stout, but it's a tad lighter and less bitter. It still brings that malty, dark, chocolatey vibe to this dish without the heft of a stout.
  • Dark Ale - If you're looking for something with a rich flavor but a bit more nuanced than stout, a dark ale could be a great fit. It's got the malt but with a broader spectrum of flavors that might not feel as heavy.
  • Mushroom or Additional Vegetable Broth - If you're steering away from beer altogether, substitute with mushroom broth or more vegetable broth along with a tablespoon of soy sauce.

In addition, for those avoiding alcohol, there are non-alcoholic stouts available that can provide similar flavor profiles without the alcohol content. Just a heads up, the cooking process reduces the alcohol content significantly, though not completely.

Find a vegan-friendly beer that tickles your fancy by using Barnivore's online database. It's great for discovering new favorites that fit your vegan lifestyle.

Variations

  • Add a can of white beans for an even more hearty stew.
  • Peas or sweet potatoes are also great additions for variation.
  • Add seitan to the stew as a delicious meat substitute. Known as wheat meat, seitan has a chewy texture and does an excellent job of mimicking beef chunks in stews. Use this recipe for High-Protein Lupini Bean Seitan or find another at 15 Delicious Vegan Sausage Recipes.

How To Make Classic Vegan Irish Stew

Here are snapshots of what you'll be doing for those who are visually curious. For full instructions, see the recipe card.

top view of pot making roux for Vegan Irish Stew

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the flour and mix for a minute until well combined.

adding onions and garlic for Vegan Irish Stew; top view of pot

Step 2: Add onion and garlic. Cook until onions are translucent, about 5 minutes. The flour mixture will be mixed with the onions creating almost a dry sauteeing situation. Keep an eye on it so it doesn't burn.

adding veggies to Vegan Irish Stew; top view of pot

Step 3: Mix in carrots, parsnips, turnips, and mushrooms and cook until they release moisture, about 5 minutes.

adding broth and beer to Vegan Irish Stew; top view of pot with a wooden spoon in pot

Step 4: Add vegetable broth and beer. Stir to mix.

adding potatoes and spices to Vegan Irish Stew; top view of pot

Step 5: Add the rest of the ingredients - Worcestershire sauce, potatoes, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and dissolve the tomato paste into the liquid.

boiling Vegan Irish Stew; top view of pot

Step 6: Bring to a boil, then simmer on low.

lid on Dutch oven simmering Vegan Irish Stew

Step 7: Cover for 1 hour until veggies are tender. Stir occasionally.

classic vegan Irish stew done cooking in the pot; top view

Step 8: The soup will be slightly thick. If you want a thicker consistency, consider adding a cornstarch slurry. Adjust the salt and pepper and garnish with parsley.

Top Tips

  • Channel your inner Moto Moto from Madagascar - think "I like 'em big; I like 'em chunky" regarding the vegetables. I think chunky vegetables make a big difference visually, and overall, it gives the dish a hearty, rustic vibe that screams comfort food.
  • Don't rush the cooking. Let the stew simmer gently to allow the flavors to meld together. A slow cooking time helps the hearty root vegetables become perfectly tender and the broth to thicken.
  • Whatever beer you use, make sure it's one you like. If you don't like it from the bottle or can, you won't like it in the stew.
bowl classic vegan Irish stew top view with spoon in the bowl

Serving Suggestions

Vegan Irish Stew pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some serving suggestions to complement your stew:

  • Choose a rustic sourdough or a hearty whole-grain bread for added texture and flavor.
  • Serve your stew over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for a classic comfort food experience. For a vegan version, use plant-based butter and milk alternatives.
  • For an authentic Irish experience, serve your stew with a slice of vegan Irish soda bread.
  • A fresh cabbage salad with a light vinaigrette like Classic French Salad Dressing can add a crisp, refreshing contrast to the warm stew. For sweetness, add some shredded carrots and apple slices.
bowl classic vegan Irish stew top view

Vegan Irish Stew FAQS

Can I use any potato?

Yes, you can! However, waxy potatoes like gold hold their shape well during long cooking times, while starchy potatoes like Russets break down more, thickening the stew naturally. It’s up to your texture preference. Just keep them chunky.

How can I make my vegan Irish stew more filling?

While this stew is already filling, ingredients like lentils, beans, or chunky pieces of tofu or tempeh can make the stew even more filling. Additionally, serving the stew with a side of crusty bread, over mashed potatoes, or with a scoop of cooked grains can also add to its heartiness.

How do I store the stew?

You know the drill - store in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. To freeze, cool the stew completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Leave some space for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave, adding a little water or vegetable broth if it's too thick.

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Got a minute? I'd love for you to dive into the comments and rate this Classic Vegan Irish Stew Recipe. Your feedback is invaluable—did you love it? Did you make any fun twists? Let me know how my directions worked for you so I can keep improving my recipes. Follow me on Pinterest, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube for inspiration.

bowl classic vegan Irish stew top view

Classic Vegan Irish Stew Recipe

Regi Pearce
Here's a classic Irish recipe that is delicious and brings a bit of Irish charm to your table - Vegan Irish Stew. Traditionally, this stew is made with lamb or beef, but we swap those ingredients with plant-based goodness that still gives that comforting, home-cooked feel we all crave. And it's all in one pot!
5 from 1 vote
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 1 hour hr
Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins
Course Soups and Stews
Cuisine Irish-Inspired
Servings 8 bowls
Calories 144 kcal

Equipment

  • Lodge cast iron pot

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons vegan butter or olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 3-4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2-3 carrots peeled and sliced (~250 grams)
  • 2 parsnips peeled and sliced (~250 grams)
  • 1 turnip peeled and cubed (~215 grams)
  • 8 ounces mushrooms quartered or sliced (~225g)
  • 4 cups vegetable broth about 950ml
  • 1 cup beer*
  • ½ tablespoon vegan Worcestershire sauce
  • 2-3 large potatoes peeled and cubed (600 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • a handful of fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions
 

  • Cook: In a large pot, melt the vegan butter or heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the flour, whisking continuously to combine them into a smooth paste. Keep cooking for about 2 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color. This roux will thicken the stew and add a layer of flavor.
  • Saute: To the roux, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring until they are coated and start to soften about 3 minutes.
  • Add: Stir in the carrots, parsnips, turnips, and mushrooms. The mushrooms will release some moisture. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly and absorb the flavors of the roux.
  • Deglaze: Slowly pour in the vegetable broth and beer while stirring continuously to incorporate the roux evenly with the liquid, ensuring there are no lumps.
  • Add: Add the Worcestershire sauce, cubed potatoes, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and dissolve the tomato paste into the liquid.
  • Simmer: Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for about 1 hour, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together beautifully. Stir occasionally, and if the stew seems too thick, add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
  • Season: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  • Garnish: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Video

Notes

For a rustic and comforting stew, chop the vegetables into chunky pieces.
This Vegan Irish Stew pairs wonderfully with some crusty bread on the side to soak up all that flavorful broth.
Traditional Worcestershire sauce is not vegan. You can find vegan Worcestershire at most major grocery chains without going to a special store or ordering from Amazon.
*Many people use a stout. For those not fond of stout, consider using a porter for a lighter, less bitter beer, a dark ale for nuanced richness, or additional vegetable or mushroom broth for a non-alcoholic alternative. See the post for more details. Remember, if you do not like the taste of the beer in the bottle, you will not like it in this stew, so choose one you enjoy. Make sure to choose a vegan-friendly brand, as some versions use fish bladders in the filtration process; see the post for my notes on beer.
Once the stew is finished, the broth will be slightly thickened. To achieve a thicker consistency, mix a cornstarch slurry by combining 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, stirring until smooth, and then stir it into the stew. 
Choose a potato variety that holds up well during cooking, like Yukon Gold.
The nutritional profile is only an estimate.

Nutrition

Calories: 144kcal | Carbohydrates: 26g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 860mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 6g | Calcium: 43mg | Iron: 1mg
Keywords healthy, holiday, one pot, spring, st. patrick's day
Tried this recipe?Please consider Leaving a Review!

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About Regi Pearce

Hello! I am Regi, the creator of Nuts & Twigs. I debunk the myths that vegan food is all nuts and twigs and offer plant-based scrumptiousness that goes far beyond that "rabbit food" stereotype. So grab your fork and put on your stretchy pants, 'cause you're gonna want seconds.

Reader Interactions

Comments

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    Recipe Rating




  1. Emily Carter says

    May 23, 2024 at 10:23 am

    5 stars
    This was really good. It's close to the flavors but I'm glad it's healthier than the traditional. Glad I made it and the hubby loved it too.

    Reply
    • Regi Pearce says

      May 23, 2024 at 10:29 am

      Yes! So glad to hear that. Thanks for commenting.

      Reply

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Regina Pearce

I'm Regi.

Head nut, chief twig, and creator of Nuts & Twigs. My husband, Rob, and I live in Colorado. Here, you can expect delicious vegan recipes that make you realize that a life without cheese is not only possible but also worth living.

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