Vegetable stew for winter

Vegetable stew for winter – A vibrant and healthy delicacy

Who doesn't love having a tasty vegetable stew on hand during the cold winter days? This vegetable stew recipe is not only an excellent way to preserve seasonal vegetables, but also a nutritional wonder that will delight your taste buds. With a rich mix of vegetables and spices, this recipe is perfect to be served as a main dish, accompanied by a slice of fresh bread or as a side dish for various meals.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2-3 hours
Total time: 2-3 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10 jars of 400 ml

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 kg carrots
- 3 kg onions
- 5 kg bell peppers or red capsicum
- 800 ml oil
- 500 g rice
- 3 liters of broth or tomato paste (peeled tomatoes are even better)
- 2-3 tablespoons of salt (or to taste)
- 10 bay leaves
- Pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons of sugar

Recipe history:
Vegetable stew has a rich history, being a traditional dish in many cultures, associated with the cold season and winter holidays. Every housewife has her secret when it comes to seasoning or the types of vegetables used, and this simple recipe allows you to put your personal touch on it.

Step by step for a perfect vegetable stew:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by cleaning the vegetables. Wash the bell peppers or capsicums well, then slice them thinly. Peel and chop the onions, and slice the carrots into thin rounds. The rice will be cooked separately, so make sure it is well rinsed before boiling.

2. Boiling the rice:
In a separate pot, add the rice and cover it with water. Boil for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes semi-aromatic. Drain and set aside. This step is important to prevent the rice from absorbing too much sauce from the stew.

3. Sautéing the vegetables:
In a large pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they become translucent. Now add the carrots and bell peppers, stirring well. Cover the pot and let the vegetables soften over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

4. Adding the spices:
After about 15 minutes, add salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Stir well and let it simmer for another 10 minutes. The aroma will blend, and the vegetables will become tender and delicious.

5. Including the rice and broth:
When the vegetables are almost done, add the cooked rice and broth or tomato paste. Mix everything well, then let the stew simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes. Add the sugar in the last 10 minutes of cooking to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

6. Preservation:
After the stew has simmered for 2-3 hours, it's time to preserve it. Prepare the jars by washing and drying them in the oven. Fill the jars with the hot stew, making sure there are no air bubbles. Screw on the lid and place the jars in a warm place, covered with a blanket, to create a vacuum.

7. Cooling and storage:
After 2-3 days, when the jars have completely cooled, move them to the pantry or cellar, where they can be stored for winter.

Useful tips:
- Choosing vegetables: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, or green beans, depending on your preferences.
- Spices: Add herbs like oregano or basil for an extra flavor boost.
- Variations: If you want a spicier stew, you can add finely chopped hot peppers.

Nutritional benefits:
This vegetable stew is rich in vitamins and minerals. Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, and bell peppers are full of vitamin C. Rice provides complex carbohydrates, giving you the energy you need for an active day.

Frequently asked questions:
- *Can the stew be frozen?* Yes, the stew can be frozen for later consumption. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in the freezing container.
- *How can I serve it?* The stew pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes. You can add grated cheese or sour cream on top for extra flavor.

Serving and pairing:
This vegetable stew can be served hot, as a main dish or side. A personal suggestion is to pair it with a fresh summer salad, which will add a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors. A refreshing drink, such as fruit tea or natural juice, will perfectly complement the meal.

So, dare to make this vegetable stew for winter! It is a simple and flavorful dish, ideal for adding a touch of warmth on cold days. In every jar, you will have not only a delicious meal but also beautiful family memories.