Mutton Stewed With Celery. Recipe

Recipe: Mutton Stewed With Celery

History and Fun Facts:
Mutton stewed with celery is a classic dish that combines the rich flavors of mutton with the subtle, crisp taste of celery. This recipe has a long history and can be traced back to traditional British cuisine. In the early days, mutton was a popular meat choice due to its availability and affordability. Celery, on the other hand, was introduced as a culinary ingredient around the 16th century and gained popularity over time.

Mutton, which refers to the meat of mature sheep, has a distinct flavor that pairs well with the mild and refreshing taste of celery. The combination of these ingredients creates a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for colder months.

Now, let's dive into the recipe and learn how to prepare Mutton Stewed With Celery.

Ingredients:
- 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) best end of a neck of mutton or fillet taken from the leg or shoulder
- Water, enough to cover the mutton
- 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
- 1 turnip, peeled and chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Forcemeat balls (optional)
- 4-5 stalks of fine celery, cut into small pieces
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons flour
- Juice of half a lemon

Instructions:
1. Start by preparing the mutton. Trim any excess fat and cut the meat into bite-sized pieces if necessary.

2. In a large stewpan, place the mutton and add enough water to cover it. The water should not be too excessive to avoid diluting the flavors.

3. Add the chopped carrot and turnip to the stewpan. These vegetables will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

4. Season the mutton with salt and pepper, but be careful not to over-season. Remember that the mutton has its own distinct taste, and you don't want to overpower it with spices.

5. Place the stewpan on the stove over medium heat. Bring the water to a gentle simmer and cook the mutton until it is nearly done. This step will ensure that the meat is tender and succulent.

6. Once the mutton is almost cooked, remove the meat from the stewpan and set it aside. Use a strainer to separate the gravy from the vegetables.

7. Return both the mutton and the strained gravy to the stewpan. At this point, you can add forcemeat balls if desired. These small, seasoned balls of ground meat will add an extra layer of flavor to the stew.

8. Now, it's time to add the star ingredient - the celery. Cut the celery stalks into small pieces and add them to the stewpan. The celery will infuse the stew with its unique taste and provide a refreshing crunch.

9. Allow the stew to simmer gently until the mutton is perfectly cooked and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to evenly distribute the flavors.

10. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, flour, and lemon juice. This mixture will help thicken the stew and add a hint of tanginess.

11. Take a small amount of the gravy from the stewpan and mix it with the egg yolk mixture to temper it. This step is essential to prevent the yolks from curdling when added to the hot stew.

12. Slowly pour the tempered egg yolk mixture into the stewpan while stirring continuously. This will thicken the stew and give it a velvety texture.

13. Continue simmering the stew for a few more minutes to ensure that the egg yolks are fully cooked. Keep an eye on the heat and stir carefully to prevent curdling.

14. Once the stew is done, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your taste preferences.

Serve the Mutton Stewed With Celery hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. This comforting dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or steamed rice. Enjoy the succulent mutton and the delightful crunch of the celery, all in one delicious bite.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
If you enjoy the combination of mutton and celery, you might also like to explore these similar recipe dishes:

1. Lamb Stew with Celery and Potatoes: Substitute the mutton with lamb for a more tender and mild flavor. Add diced potatoes along with the celery to make a comforting and filling stew.

2. Beef and Celery Stir-Fry: If you prefer a quick and easy stir-fry, try combining thinly sliced beef with celery, soy sauce, and various aromatics for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

3. Celery and Chicken Soup: For a lighter option, make a hearty chicken soup with celery. Add chicken pieces, broth, carrots, onions, and of course, plenty of celery to create a nourishing and comforting meal.

These recipes provide alternative ways to enjoy the delightful pairing of celery with different meats, ensuring a range of flavors and textures to suit your cravings.

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