📍 Where this dish comes from: Connemara, County Galway
Discover the history of this region →
Discover the history of this region →
This Keto Irish Venison Stew is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines tender venison with rich herbs and vegetables, simmered in a savory broth. Perfect for cold evenings, this low-carb stew is packed with protein and healthy fats, making it an ideal option for those on a keto diet. The venison adds a distinct gamey flavor that elevates the classic Irish stew to something truly special.
What You’ll Need
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 400kcal
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs venison cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup mushrooms sliced
- 1 cup turnips diced (or radishes for even lower carbs)
- 2 carrots diced (optional for keto macros)
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional or replace with more broth)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the venison: Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the venison cubes with salt and pepper. Brown the venison in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove the venison and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, mushrooms, turnips, and carrots (if using). Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and slightly browned.
- Add the liquids and herbs: Stir in the tomato paste, followed by the beef broth and red wine (if using). Return the browned venison to the pot. Add the bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary. Bring the stew to a simmer.
- Simmer the stew: Lower the heat, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the venison is tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Remove the bay leaves before serving. Garnish the stew with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot. Pair with a side of cauliflower mash or steamed greens for a complete keto meal.
Nutrition
Serving: 1serving | Calories: 400kcal | Protein: 30g | Fat: 28g
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Health Benefits
- Venison is naturally very lean and high in protein, making this one of the leaner stews in the book despite being hearty.
- Turnips stand in for potatoes here, keeping the classic stew format low-carb.
Pairs Well With
- Herbed Keto "Potato" Salad (using Cauliflower)
- Warm Keto Sausage and Cabbage Salad

