Ballymaloe Irish Stew

Shred some fat off the Gigot or Rack chops and render it down in the bottom of a heavy casserole pot. Peel onions, carrots and potatoes. Trim off any excess fat from the chops. Do not remove bones. Cut carrots and onions into quarters. Toss meat in the rendered fat until browned then remove. Do the same with the carrots and onions, then add back in the meat.

Add stock if you have it or water will do. Season nicely with salt and pepper remembering that it will reduce.Allow to simmer for half an hour with the lid on, then add potatoes on top. Cover and simmer gently for another 1 and half hours approximately on a gentle heat or in a moderate oven until meat is cooked.

Then pour off the cooking liquid. Degrease and reheat in another saucepan. Very slightly thicken the liquid with roux. Check seasoning. Then swirl in butter, chives, parsley and pour back into stew.