Scotch Broth with Lamb
A hearty Scottish classic with tender lamb, pearl barley, and root vegetables simmered in a deeply flavored broth. Comfort in a bowl, ready in 90 minutes.
- Total time
- 100 min
- Servings
- 6
- Calories
- 385
- Protein
- 32g
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb lamb shoulder, boneless, cut into 1-inch chunks
- ½ cup pearl barley
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 2 stalks celery, sliced 1/4-inch thick
- 2 medium potatoes, diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 as needed salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
- 1
Pat lamb dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
- 2
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until shimmering, ~2 minutes.
- 3
Working in batches, sear lamb without stirring for 2 minutes per side until deeply browned. Transfer to a plate.
- 4
Add diced onion to the pot and cook, stirring often, until softened and translucent, ~5 minutes.
- 5
Pour in broth and scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to release browned bits.
- 6
Return lamb to the pot with any accumulated juices. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- 7
Add pearl barley, carrots, celery, and potatoes. Stir to combine.
- 8
Simmer uncovered for 60–70 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lamb is very tender and barley is soft.
- 9
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. The broth should be rich and flavorful.
- 10
Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread.
Tools you’ll need
- large pot (6–8 quart capacity)
- chef's knife
- cutting board
- wooden spoon
- ladle
- paper towels
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