Italian-style lamb stew: Nonna’s leftover recipe

Name: Italian-style lamb stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 80 min
Total time: 95 min
Yield: 2
Ingredients: 1 kg lamb trimmings; 2 large onions, julienned; 1 sliced carrots; 100 g peas; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 750 ml vegetable broth; ½ glass of dry white wine; 2 diced potatoes; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; fresh sage; fresh rosemary; extra virgin olive oil; salt; black pepper

Mia Villar Raurich

9 months ago

Italian-style lamb stew - Nonna's leftover recipe

Sometimes the best dishes are born from an unexpected gesture. Like this lamb stew, made with the trimmings that my butcher Joaquín gave me while he told me how his grandmother turned the humble into something delicious. And as I cooked, I felt I was following that legacy exactly: transforming simple ingredients into a stew full of aroma, love, and that deep flavor that only appears when you cook without rushing. In this Italian-style lamb stew, the nonna also makes an appearance with a trick that never fails.

Watch the video with all the steps

Below you can see the video with all the steps to prepare Italian-style lamb stew in the easiest way.
And if you haven’t done so yet, I invite you to subscribe to my YouTube channel so you don’t miss any new recipes. Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram! There I share more recipes, tips, and special content for lovers of Italian cuisine.

Main ingredients for the Italian-style lamb stew

For 2 people

⏱ Preparation time: 15 minutes
⏱ Cooking time: 1 hour 20 minutes

1 kg lamb trimmings
2 large onions, julienned
1 carrot, sliced
100 g peas
1 tablespoon tomato paste
750 ml vegetable broth
½ glass dry white wine
2 potatoes, diced
1 teaspoon cinnamon
Fresh sage
Fresh rosemary
Extra virgin olive oil
Salt
Black pepper

Remember: At the end of the article, you will find the complete recipe card with detailed cooking and preparation times.

How to prepare the Italian-style lamb stew

The initial trick: clean the trimmings well

Before starting, put the lamb trimmings in very cold water with a little ice and change the water a couple of times. This removes impurities and traces of blood, leaving the meat ready to brown without strong odors. Dry them very well with a clean cloth or paper towel.

Brown the lamb without rushing

Heat a good splash of extra virgin olive oil in a pot. Season the meat with salt and pepper and place it in the pot without moving it too much. Let it brown on one side and then turn it over. This part gives depth to the stew.

Onion and carrot for a sweet base

Add the julienned onions and the sliced carrot. Add a pinch of salt to help them release their juices. This base provides a natural sweetness that balances the intense flavor of the lamb. Sauté over medium heat until the onion is tender.

Wine, tomato, and herbs: the essence of the stew

When the vegetables are soft, turn up the heat a little and deglaze with the dry white wine. Let the alcohol evaporate. Add the tomato paste, stir, and add fresh rosemary and sage. Incorporate a little vegetable broth and cover. Cook over very low heat for about 30 minutes.

The nonna and her secret touch

Here comes the most unexpected ingredient: cinnamon. In Sicily and other Mediterranean cuisines, it is used to add warmth to lamb dishes. Add a teaspoon, stir, and let the stew continue over low heat for about 10 more minutes.

Potatoes and peas to finish

Add the diced potatoes and more broth if necessary to cover. Cover and let cook for about 25 minutes. When the potatoes start to fall apart, add the peas. Mix, cover again, and let everything meld well.

Tips and tricks for a perfect lamb stew

Pre-cleaning for a milder flavor

Soaking in ice water helps remove residues and leaves the meat ready to brown better.

Slow and steady cooking

Don’t be in a hurry. This stew is transformed precisely thanks to low heat and time.

Balance of aromas

The sweetness of the onion and carrot, the white wine, and the cinnamon create a contrast that enhances the flavor of the lamb without masking it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another part of the lamb instead of trimmings?

Yes, although the trimmings add a lot of flavor, you can also use chopped neck or shoulder.

Is the cinnamon very noticeable in the stew?

No, if used in moderation it provides a warm aroma without invading the flavor of the lamb.

Can I prepare the stew in advance?

Yes, in fact, the next day it tastes even better because the flavors integrate more.

What do I do if the stew is too thick?

Add a little more hot broth until you reach the texture you prefer.

Is it necessary to brown the meat?

Browning it is key to achieving depth of flavor and a more aromatic stew.

Related recipes you will love

If you like traditional Italian recipes, here are other suggestions to enjoy authentic flavors:

Pasta with tomato and basil: a simple recipe full of aroma.
Bolognese lasagna: a great classic of Italian cuisine.
Pasta with broccoli and anchovies: perfect for those who love intense flavors.

Enjoy your Italian-style lamb stew!

This stew is proof that with simple ingredients, time, and love, you can prepare something truly comforting. Tell me in the comments how it turned out for you.

If you liked this recipe, subscribe to my YouTube channel and Instagram to discover more authentic Italian dishes. I would love to see your photos and results!

Bon appétit!

The latest video recipes from my channel!

The card