Irish Stew

From the Irish Children's Fund Friends and family "Wee Cookbook"

2lbs Lamb
1lb Onion
4 Stalks celery
1 Leek
1/2lb Carrots
2oz Barley
1 1/2lb Potatos
3/4pint (12oz) cold water
(optional, swap in 1/2lb turnip or parsnip for 1/2lb potato)

Cut meat into one inch cubes. Season well with salt and pepper. Slice onions thinly. Slice other vegetables thickly.  Pack alternating layers of vegetables, barley, and meat in ovenproof casserole. Start with the onions and end with potatos. Pour water over, cover and cook for 1 1/2- 2 hours at 325. Baste with juices from time to time. Raise oven temp to 425, uncover the casserole and brown the potatoes to finish.