If there is one thing every Victorian craves when the winter frost sets in, it is a rich, slow-cooked stew. Traditional recipes can sometimes be heavy on thick fats and refined flours, but at AB Health and Fitness, we have given this local favourite a major nutritional upgrade.
Using lean diced lamb for muscle-repairing protein and loading it up with iron-rich spinach and complex carbs from sweet potatoes, this meal is designed to refuel your body after a tough winter workout without leaving you feeling sluggish.
Ingredients
- 500g lean lamb shoulder or leg, diced and trimmed of excess fat
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large brown onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 large carrots, sliced into thick rounds
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 400g tin of diced tomatoes
- 2 cups low-sodium beef or vegetable broth
- 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary and thyme
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
- Sear the meat: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season the lamb with a pinch of salt and pepper, then brown the diced lamb for 4–5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics: Turn the heat down to medium. Add the onion, garlic, and celery to the same pot, cooking for 3 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Build the base: Toss in the carrots and sweet potato cubes, then return the lamb to the pot. Pour in the diced tomatoes, broth, rosemary, and thyme. Bring everything to a gentle boil.
- Simmer low and slow: Turn the heat down to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the lamb is incredibly tender and the sauce has naturally thickened. (Alternatively, transfer it all to a slow cooker for 6–8 hours on low so it’s ready when you walk through the door after work).
- The Green Boost: Just before serving, stir through the fresh baby spinach until it wilts beautifully into the rich gravy.
Divide into bowls and enjoy on its own as a thick, high-protein stew, or serve it over a small bed of brown rice or quinoa for an extra energy kick!
Fuel Your Fitness Journey
If you want more nutritious, performance-driven meals to get you through the colder months, keep an eye out for our upcoming monthly recipe tips! Here at AB Health and Fitness, we don’t just guide you through sweaty, high-energy gym sessions; we support your entire lifestyle. From building structural strength to mastering your nutrition, we are here to help you move well, eat well, and stay consistent all year round.
