Vegetable stew for winter

Winter Vegetable Stew – a delicious and comforting recipe

Winter vegetable stew is a traditional recipe, full of flavors and colors, that combines the fresh taste of vegetables with the warmth and comfort of slow-cooked dishes. This stew is perfect for preparing in the cold season when we want to enjoy healthy and nourishing delights. It is also an excellent option for preservation, ideal for stocking up the pantry with the taste of summer. I will share step by step how to make a tasty stew with accessible and easy-to-find ingredients.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients

- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 2 roasted green peppers, peeled and diced
- 2 large carrots, grated or finely chopped
- 4 large tomatoes, peeled and chopped
- 2 bell peppers, cleaned and cubed
- 1 teaspoon of salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper (optional)
- 1/2 cup of rice (approximately 100 g)
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil

Preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing and peeling all the vegetables. Finely chopping the onions, carrots, and peppers will help with even cooking. If you have a food processor, you can use it to save time, but make sure not to chop them too finely to maintain texture.

2. Sautéing the onions
In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and slightly golden, about 5-7 minutes. Constant stirring is essential to avoid burning the onions.

3. Adding the vegetables
Add the grated carrots and roasted green peppers to the pot. Mix well to combine the flavors and cook the vegetables for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step will bring the flavors of the vegetables to life and create a tasty base for the stew.

4. Incorporating the tomatoes
Peel the tomatoes (you can use a quick method by dipping them for a few seconds in boiling water and then in cold water) and chop them. Add the tomatoes to the pot and mix well. The liquid from the tomatoes will help cook the vegetables and add a rich flavor to the stew.

5. Boiling the stew
Let the stew simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the tomato juice reduces and the vegetables are well cooked, about 15-20 minutes. You can cover the pot with a lid to speed up the process, but make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Adding the rice
When the vegetables are nearly done, add the rice to the pot. Mix well to integrate it and let the stew simmer for another 10 minutes, until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the flavors. Check the consistency occasionally and add water if necessary to avoid burning.

7. Preserving the stew
Once the stew is ready, prepare sterilized jars (you can do this by boiling them or washing them in the dishwasher at high temperatures). Fill the jars with the hot stew and seal them well. Place the jars in a pot of hot water (water bath) for 30-40 minutes to ensure good preservation.

8. Cooling and storing
After the water bath, cover the jars with a blanket to cool slowly. This will create a vacuum that will keep the stew fresh for a longer period. Once cooled, store the jars in a dark and cool place.

Serving suggestions and variations

The vegetable stew is delicious served as is, but you can accompany it with a slice of fresh bread or a portion of polenta. You can also add some fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, to enhance the flavor.

For a heartier version, you can add some diced potatoes or even white or red beans. If you like a spicier taste, you can include hot peppers or spices like paprika or cumin.

Nutritional benefits

This stew is not only tasty but also healthy! The vegetables used are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, while the rice adds complex carbohydrates that provide long-lasting energy. It is a vegan recipe, full of fiber, that helps maintain digestive health.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, it’s an excellent option! Frozen vegetables can be added directly to the stew, but make sure to let them thaw a bit beforehand.

2. Can it be adapted to include meat?
Of course! You can add diced chicken or pork at the beginning of the cooking process.

3. How long can the stew be kept?
If preserved correctly, the vegetable stew can be stored for 6-12 months in the pantry. After opening the jar, consume it within a few days.

4. Can I add other spices?
Certainly! Add your favorite spices, such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary, to customize the flavor of the stew.

Winter vegetable stew is a versatile and flavorful recipe, perfect for enjoying on a chilly winter evening with loved ones. Try it and let yourself be carried away by the rich flavors and vibrant colors of the vegetables!