Remember, if it's Green Don't Eat It

Wednesday is St. Patrick's Day. People all over will dive into green beer, green bagels and other items that are not normally green. My sister, whose birthday is also St. Patrick's Day can tell you of years of traumatic birthday parties, where she suffered with green cakes. My father (100% French) will surely seek out corned beef and cabbage, for reasons that continue to baffle me.

But if you wish to partake, here's a recipe from the Costco Connection magazine (March 2010) for an Irish Stew.

Irish Stew

• 2 lbs. lamb or beef stew meat
• 1 1/2 lbs. potatoes
• 5 medium onions
• Chopped parsley and thyme to taste
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 1/2 cups water

Trim the meat and cut into fairly large pieces. Peel and slice the potatoes and onions. Put layers of meat, potatoes, onions and herbs and seasoning into a pot, finishing with a layer of potatoes.

Pour the water over the meat and vegetables, and bring to a boil. Simmer gently for about 2 hours or bake in a slow oven at 300 degrees F. Check during cooking, adding more liquid if necessary. Makes 4 servings.

Tips: Lamb is traditionally used in Irish stew, but beef stew meat is a tasty option. Carrots and pearl barley can be added for extra color and interest. A good Irish stew should be thick and creamy, not swimming in juice.

[Recipe is courtesy of Discover Ireland]