Hearty Vegetable Stew

Hearty Vegetable Stew Recipe - Vegetarian Comfort Food

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Hearty Vegetable Stew is a comforting and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with a variety of vegetables and flavorful seasonings, this stew is sure to warm you up from the inside out.

History

Vegetable stew has been a staple in many cultures for centuries. It is a versatile dish that can be made with whatever vegetables are in season, making it a popular choice for home cooks looking to use up ingredients in their pantry.

Ingredients

8 new potatoes (red- or yellow-skinned)
3 large carrots
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
1 stalk celery, chopped
4 broccoli stalks (without florettes), peeled and cut into 0.5" pieces
2 small zucchini, sliced
1 cup frozen lima beans (optional)
0.5 cup frozen peas (optional)
0.25 tsp celery seed
0.25 tsp dried sage
0.25 tsp dried marjoram
0.5 tsp sea salt
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 cup water
8 oz (227 g) flavoured seitan, cut into chunks (optional)

How to prepare

Place the whole potatoes and carrots in a vegetable steamer, ensuring they are covered, and steam over boiling water for 15 minutes. Slice the carrots into 0.5 inch pieces and cube the potatoes into 1" cubes (peeling is optional). Heat olive oil in a large soup pot. Add the potatoes, carrots, onion, celery, broccoli, salt, soy sauce, water, and seitan (if desired). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 5 minutes. Add the zucchini, peas, and lima beans. Bring back to a boil, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broth thickens.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes for a touch of acidity.
Swap out the seitan for tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based protein option.
Stir in a spoonful of miso paste for added depth of flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to chop your vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

- Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or seasonings.

- For a heartier stew, you can add cooked grains such as quinoa or barley.

- This stew can be easily made in a slow cooker for a hands-off cooking experience.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this stew with a side of crusty bread or over cooked grains for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming the potatoes and carrots before adding them to the stew helps to retain their nutrients and texture.

- Simmering the stew covered allows the flavors to meld together and creates a rich broth.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to swap out any of the vegetables in this recipe for ones you prefer or have on hand.

- You can use vegetable broth in place of water for added flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

This stew can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the stew with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This stew pairs well with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 250 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 35g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 7g per serving

Saturated Fat: 1g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 10g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This stew is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as potassium and magnesium.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy (soy sauce) and gluten (seitan).

Summary

This hearty vegetable stew is a nutritious and filling meal that is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Hearty Vegetable Stew is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with a variety of vegetables and flavorful seasonings, this stew is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy memory that I will always cherish. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves were changing colors and there was a chill in the air. I was visiting my dear friend Martha, who was known for her delicious homemade soups and stews. As soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, I was greeted by the inviting aroma of simmering vegetables and herbs.

Martha saw the look of delight on my face and knew that I was eager to learn her recipe for Hearty Vegetable Stew. She smiled warmly and said, "Come, dear, let me show you how to make this comforting dish." I eagerly followed her as she gathered the ingredients and began to explain the process.

She started by sautéing onions and garlic in a large pot, filling the kitchen with a mouthwatering scent. Next, she added carrots, celery, and potatoes, along with a generous amount of fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. As the vegetables cooked, Martha shared with me the story of how she had learned to make this stew from her own grandmother, who had passed down the recipe through generations.

I listened intently as Martha stirred in tomatoes, broth, and a medley of colorful bell peppers. She let the stew simmer on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a rich, hearty base. Finally, she added a variety of beans and corn, giving the stew a satisfying texture and depth of flavor.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I took my first bite of the Hearty Vegetable Stew and was immediately transported to a place of comfort and warmth. The flavors were robust and comforting, a perfect balance of earthy vegetables and fragrant herbs. I knew then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made the Hearty Vegetable Stew countless times, each batch reminding me of that special day with Martha. I have added my own twists and variations to the recipe, experimenting with different vegetables and spices to create new and exciting flavors. But no matter how many times I make it, the stew always brings me back to that cozy kitchen, filled with love and laughter.

I have shared this recipe with friends and family, passing down the tradition much like Martha did with me. It has become a beloved dish in our household, a symbol of comfort and togetherness. And every time I make it, I am reminded of the power of food to connect us to our past, to nourish our bodies and souls, and to create lasting memories that we will cherish forever.