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Lamb and Broccoli Stew

This slow-cooked lamb and broccoli stew is the ultimate comforting meal for those seeking a dairy-free alternative to traditional creamy casseroles. By brining the lamb shoulder for at least twelve hours, the meat becomes exceptionally tender and well-seasoned, standing up beautifully to the aromatic base of rosemary, thyme, and white wine. The addition of a homemade garlic emulsion provides a rich, silky finish that perfectly complements the earthy broccoli and fresh tarragon.

As a hearty dairy-free main course, this dish is ideal for weekend entertaining or a slow Sunday reset. The stew base can be prepared several days in advance, allowing the savoury flavours to deepen over time. Serve it in Shallow bowls with plenty of fresh herbs for a vibrant, homemade meal that feels both sophisticated and wholesome.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Lamb and Broccoli Stew

  • 50g sugar

  • 150g kosher salt plus more

  • 900g bone-in lamb shoulder

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

  • 4 medium onions, coarsely chopped

  • 4 garlic cloves, chopped

  • 1 sprig rosemary

  • 1 sprig thyme

  • 1 bay leaf

  • 240ml dry white wine

  • 1925ml low-sodium chicken broth

  • 2 large eggs

  • 2 garlic cloves

  • 45ml (or more) fresh lemon juice

  • 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt plus more

  • 3/4 cup vegetable oil

  • 1 bunch broccoli, stems reserved for another use, cut into small florets

  • Flat-leaf parsley and fresh tarragon leaves (for garnish)

How to make Lamb and Broccoli Stew

Whisk sugar, 180ml salt, and 2400ml water in a large bowl until salt and sugar dissolve. Add lamb, cover, and chill for at least 12 hours and up to 2 days.

Heat oil in a large heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add onions, garlic, rosemary sprig, thyme sprig, and bay leaf. Cook, stirring often, until onions are golden brown and soft, 10-15 minutes. Remove pot from heat and add wine, stirring and scraping up any browned bits from bottom of pan. Return pot to heat and simmer until wine is reduced by half, about 3 minutes.

Remove lamb shoulder from brine; add to pot, along with broth. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer gently, partially covered and skimming fat occasionally, until lamb is fork-tender, 5-6 hours.

Transfer lamb to a platter and remove bones. Cut or shred meat into bite-size pieces. If needed, boil cooking liquid in pot until reduced to 1450ml , 15-30 minutes. Season sauce with salt, if needed. Return lamb to pot. DO AHEAD: Lamb can be prepared 3 days ahead. Let cool slightly, then chill until cold. Cover and keep chilled. Discard fat and reheat before serving.

Place eggs in a small saucepan and add water to cover by 1". Bring to a boil and remove from heat. Cover and let sit for 3 minutes. Transfer eggs to a bowl of ice water and let cool completely. Peel.

Combine eggs, garlic, 3 tablespoons lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoons salt in a blender. With the motor running, gradually add oil, blending until a creamy sauce forms. Season garlic emulsion with salt and more lemon juice, if desired.

Cook broccoli in a large pot of boiling salted water until crisp-tender, about 4 minutes. Drain; rinse under cold water.

Divide stew among bowls and garnish with broccoli, parsley, tarragon, and garlic emulsion.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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