Zucchini and green bean stew with smoked bacon

Name: Zucchini and green bean stew with smoked bacon
Ingredients: 1 large zucchini; 500 g green beans; 600 g smoked ribs; 2 onions; 2 carrots; 1 bell pepper; 2 heads of garlic; 300 g tomato paste; 100 ml oil; water; salt; thyme; pepper; dill; parsley

Meat - Zucchini and green bean stew with smoked bacon by Octavia F. - Recipia

Zucchini and Green Bean Stew with Smoked Bacon Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 50-60 minutes Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes Servings: 4-6 A zucchini and green bean stew with smoked bacon is a dish that combines the flavors of fresh vegetables with the intense taste of smoked meat. This recipe is not only delicious but also an excellent way to benefit from the nutrients found in vegetables. The origins of the stew are ancient, and the dish has evolved over time, becoming a symbol of comfort in the kitchen. In this guide, I will teach you step by step how to cook this simple and tasty recipe, providing you with some practical tips to achieve a perfect result. We will discuss the necessary ingredients, cooking techniques, and a few variations that will add extra flavor. Ingredients: - 1 large zucchini (approximately 400-500 g) - 500 g fresh green beans - 600 g smoked bacon - 2 medium onions - 2 carrots - 1 bell pepper - 2 heads of garlic - 300 g tomato paste - 100 ml sunflower or olive oil - water (as needed) - salt, pepper, thyme - fresh dill and parsley Preparing the bacon: 1. Start by washing the smoked bacon under cold running water to remove excess salt and impurities. 2. Place the bacon in a pot and add enough water to cover it completely. Boil the bacon for 10-15 minutes. This step will help enhance the flavor and make the meat more tender. 3. After boiling, drain the water and wash the bacon again. Put it back to boil, covered with water, and let it simmer until the meat easily separates from the bone, which may take about 40-50 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon from the water and let it cool slightly for handling. Preparing the vegetables: 4. While the bacon is boiling, clean and wash the vegetables. Cut the zucchini into cubes. 5. Blanch the zucchini cubes in the same water used for boiling the bacon for 5 minutes, then remove them and place them in a baking dish. 6. Repeat the process with the green beans. Cut the ends of the beans, then blanch them for a few minutes in the same water before placing them over the zucchini. Vegetable sauce: 7. In a large pan, add the oil and sauté the finely chopped onion, grated carrot, and diced bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and translucent, about 8-10 minutes. 8. Add the finely chopped garlic, stirring quickly to prevent burning, and let it sauté for just 1-2 minutes. 9. Add the tomato paste, salt, pepper, and thyme to taste. Dilute with a little juice from the bacon to create a richer and more aromatic sauce. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Finalizing the stew: 10. Finely chop the dill and parsley, and at the end, add them to the sauce. 11. Pour the vegetable sauce over the zucchini and green beans in the baking dish, adding the cut pieces of bacon as well. 12. Cover the dish with a lid and place it in a preheated oven at 175 degrees Celsius for 35-40 minutes. This will allow the flavors to blend perfectly. Serving: Once the stew is ready, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. It is delicious both warm and at room temperature. You can serve it with fresh bread, polenta, or a crisp green salad. Suggestions and variations: - If you like fresh tomatoes, you can replace the tomato paste with 3-4 medium diced tomatoes. This will add a fresh note to the dish. - If you prefer a stew with more sauce, you can add a tablespoon of flour diluted in water towards the end of cooking to thicken the sauce. - Substitute the bacon with smoked chicken or a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian version. Nutritional values: This stew is not only tasty but also healthy. Zucchini is rich in antioxidants, while green beans provide plant-based protein and fiber. The smoked bacon adds flavor and a protein boost, but it is recommended to consume it in moderation due to its fat content. Frequently asked questions: 1. Can I use other vegetables? Sure! You can incorporate carrots, zucchini, or even potatoes depending on your preferences. 2. How can I make the stew spicier? Add some chopped hot pepper or chili flakes during the sautéing of the vegetables. 3. What drinks pair well with this stew? A cold beer or a dry white wine pairs perfectly with the intense flavors of the stew. I hope this recipe for zucchini and green bean stew with smoked bacon brings you joy in the kitchen and on your plate. Enjoy!

Zucchini and green bean stew with smoked bacon

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