Irish Sausage & Cabbage Stew

Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Sausages
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sausages to the pot and cook them until they are browned on all sides, which should take about 5 minutes. Once browned, remove the sausages from the pot and set them aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing them until they are softened and fragrant. Stir in the sliced carrots and cubed potatoes, cooking for an additional 3 minutes.
Step 3: Build the Stew Base
Next, stir in the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, making sure they’re well combined with the vegetables. Pour in the beef or chicken broth and, if you’re using it, the Irish stout beer for an extra layer of flavor. Add the thyme, parsley, black pepper, salt, and the bay leaf. Stir everything together.
Step 4: Simmer the Stew
Return the browned sausages to the pot and bring the stew to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the stew simmer for 30 minutes. After that, add the chopped cabbage and continue cooking for another 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Before serving, remove the bay leaf from the stew and discard it. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, then garnish the stew with freshly chopped parsley. Serve it hot, accompanied by crusty bread for dipping.
Tips & Variations
• Spicy Kick: For a little heat, add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the stew.
• Meaty Twist: If you want an even richer flavor, consider adding smoked bacon or ham to the stew for extra depth.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap out the sausages for plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth to make a vegetarian version of this delicious stew.
This Irish Sausage & Cabbage Stew is a true crowd-pleaser, combining the warmth of a classic stew with the hearty goodness of sausages and vegetables. It’s perfect for any occasion, offering a fulfilling meal that’s as comforting as it is flavorful.