A rich and flavorful Irish stew, perfect for cozy evenings.
Brown the beef and lamb in batches in a hot pan with a little oil until golden on all sides.
Ensure the pan is hot before adding the meat to achieve a good sear.
Caramelize the onions in butter and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until golden and soft.
Stir frequently to prevent burning and achieve even caramelization.
Combine the browned meat, caramelized onions, carrots, celery, potatoes, garlic, rosemary, thyme, stout, and water in the slow cooker.
Layer the ingredients evenly for consistent cooking.
Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the meat is tender and the flavors are well combined.
Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain a consistent temperature.
Mix the flour with a little water to form a slurry, then stir into the stew to thicken.
Add the slurry gradually while stirring to avoid lumps.
Stir in the fresh parsley and adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
Serve with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.