St. Patrick’s Day was rather low-key this year.  We talked about attending the parade, but life has been busy and we needed to be home.  Instead, we had an Irish meal at home: Oven Irish Stew, Irish Soda bread, and mint chocolate brownies for dessert.  The stew couldn’t have been more simple and was very good!  Will definitely make this again.  Mary Jo brought us the soda bread – we LOVE this bread.  One year I’ll get around to trying to make it myself.  We also spent some time talking about St. Patrick, his life, and his contribution to the Christian faith.  Each time we do things like this the kids are a little bit older, more and more questions are asked, and conversation develops a bit more.  I’m grateful for these memory making/teaching opportunities.  

Oven Irish Stew

1 1/2 lbs. eye of round beef, cubed 
1 28-oz. can diced tomatoes
2 celery ribs, chopped
1 lb. bag baby carrots, chopped
3 chopped onions
3 lbs. red potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 10 oz. bag frozen peas
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. pepper
1 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 c. dry minute tapioca
1/2 T. sugar
1-2 c. water

Mix all ingredients in a large roaster pan.  Cover and bake at 275 degrees for 5 hours.  Or, to make in slow cooker, place ingredients in crock, cover, and cook 4-6 hours on high or 8-10 hours on low.  Serves 6-8.