Nourishing Shredded Lamb Stew with Carrots & Sweet Potatoes

With our recent unexpected snow storm we were in need of a meal that warmed both body and soul, and this shredded lamb stew was the perfect remedy. Tender, slow-cooked lamb melds beautifully with sweet carrots and velvety sweet potatoes in a robust broth that’s as nourishing as it is satisfying—all without a trace of dairy (for those who are looking for a dairy free soup). Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a comforting dinner or simply craving a hearty stew, this recipe is a must-try.

A Symphony of Flavors

This stew is a celebration of wholesome ingredients:

• Lamb Shoulder or Leg: Slowly braised until it falls apart, releasing deep, savory flavors.
• Carrots & Sweet Potatoes: These vegetables add natural sweetness and a wonderful texture that contrasts with the richness of the lamb.
• Herbs & Spices: A warming blend of smoked paprika, cumin, thyme, and a hint of cinnamon infuses the stew with a subtle middle eastern touch.
•  Bone Broth & Tomatoes: These ingredients create a rich, flavorful base that ties everything together while providing an extra boost of nutrients.

What You’ll Need

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs lamb shoulder or leg (bone-in if possible, for extra flavor) You can also used leftover shredded lamb like I did for this recipe.
• 1 tbsp ghee or avocado oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 cups bone broth (lamb or beef preferred)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (optional, for extra depth)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary
• ½ tsp cinnamon (optional, for a warm note)
• 1 bay leaf
• Sea salt & black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (for brightness)
• 1 cup chopped kale or spinach (optional, for added greens)

How to Make It

1. Sear the Lamb

Begin by heating the ghee (or avocado oil) in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Season the lamb generously with salt and pepper. Once the oil is shimmering, add the lamb and sear on all sides until it’s beautifully browned—about 5 minutes per side. Remove the lamb from the pot and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onions become translucent and soft. Stir in the tomato paste along with the smoked paprika, cumin, thyme (or rosemary), cinnamon, and an extra pinch of salt. Let the spices bloom for a minute until they release their aroma.

3. Simmer to Perfection

Return the lamb to the pot. Pour in the bone broth and add the diced tomatoes (if using), bay leaf, and apple cider vinegar. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the pot. Allow it to cook on low heat for 2–3 hours until the lamb is tender and easily shreds. (If you prefer, you can transfer this to a slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours.)

4. Add the Vegetables

Once the lamb is tender, remove it from the pot and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded lamb to the pot and add the sliced carrots and cubed sweet potatoes. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for another 30 minutes or until the vegetables are soft and infused with the stew’s flavors.

5. Finishing Touches

Stir in the chopped kale or spinach, if you’re using them, and allow them to wilt for about 5 minutes. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a bit more acidity if needed.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty stew can be enjoyed on its own as a complete meal, or you can serve it over a bowl of quinoa, rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad and crusty bread to soak up every drop of the delicious broth.

There’s something truly comforting about a bowl of stew that has simmered for hours—the way the flavors meld together, the tender meat that melts in your mouth, and the nourishing vegetables that remind you of home-cooked love. This shredded lamb stew not only offers a rich, satisfying meal but also embraces a dairy-free, wholesome lifestyle. Enjoy every spoonful and let it remind you of the power of slow-cooked, mindful eating.

Feel free to share your experience in the comments below or tag me on Instagram with your version of this stew. Happy cooking!