Irish Stew

Directions

1. 1
   Trim fat from mutton and cut meat into pieces.
2. 2
   Put into a saucepan and add just enough water to cover meat. Cook, covered, 1 1/2 hours on medium heat. Cut onions into quarters. Cut carrots and cabbage into strips and quarter the potatoes. Cover the bottom of a large heatproof casserole with slices of bacon. Cover with alternate layers of mutton, onions, carrots, cabbage and potatoes. Season layers with remaining ingredients.
3. 3
   Pour over all enough mutton broth to barely cover the top layer.
4. 4
   Bring to a boil. Cover tightly and simmer 20 to 30 minutes or until meat and vegetables are tender. Sprinkle with parsley, if desired.
5. 5
   Yields 4 to 6 servings.