I used to think I was going to marry an Irish Farmer. Even after my first few dates with my husband! And then I met an Irish Farmer, and it wasn’t all I dreamed of…but that’s another story for another time! When I was searching for Beef and Barley stew recipes, I started to find recipes that included things like celery, potatoes, and mushrooms. I was intrigued momentarily, since so often we think in terms of “the more ingredients, the better,” but for the sake of Irish authenticity, and a clean, hearty taste, I kept it simple.
Real Irish Beef and Barley stew only requires Beef, Beef stock, and Barley. Carrots are a delicious, natural, and nutritive addition. For extra flavor, I used one sprig of Sage and two Bay Leaves. The mingled smell of sage and beef stock might be my favorite cooking scent ever.
I’d love to give you a history of the barley crop in Ireland and Scotland (yawn), but suffice it to say: barley was the main crop until it was replaced by the potato, which has a lower blight probability since it grows underground. Barley IS a grain, and is therefore NOT Paleo or SCD. However, the organic barley I’m using is natural and nutritious. I really believe that I will do well with this grain in small amounts. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again…
I think it’s confining to limit yourself to a prescribed diet for too long. Yes, AIP (autoimmune paleo) or SCD protocols are important when you are in recovery, but in the long term, I believe in branching out and testing your tolerance for all things to have optimum nutrition.
Irish Farmer’s Beef and Barley Stew (makes 4-6 servings)
- Heat 4-6 cups of Beef broth in a pot on medium heat
- While broth is heating, sear 1.5 pounds of stew beef in olive oil or butter
- Add 1 cup barley, sage, and bay leaves to broth, let simmer for 20 minutes
- Turn heat on broth down to low. Add beef, carrots, and optional onions
- Cook on Low for 1-2 hours or as long as you want the smell of beef and sage to waft into your home
- Remove herbs and serve!
