Winter stew

Winter Stew: A Recipe Full of Comfort and Nostalgia

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12

Winter brings the desire to gather around the table, savoring dishes that provide warmth and comfort. Winter stew is exactly this type of food: a delicious combination of vegetables, flavorful and hearty, reminding us of childhood meals when our mothers encouraged us to help in the kitchen. This recipe is not only simple but also an excellent way to preserve the tastes of summer in jars for the cold winter days.

Ingredients
- 3 kg bell peppers (or capia peppers) – for a sweet-sour taste
- 1 kg white onion – adds depth and flavor
- 0.5 kg carrot – adds a note of natural sweetness
- 400 g tomato paste – for a vibrant color and rich taste
- 500 ml sunflower oil – for sautéing the vegetables
- 200 g rice – to provide consistency
- 2 tablespoons sugar – balances acidity
- Salt to taste – to enhance flavors

Useful Tips
- Bell peppers: Choose firm and fresh peppers, free from spots or bruises. They are essential for a flavorful stew.
- Rice: Use long-grain rice that absorbs flavors well but does not turn into mush.
- Tomato paste: A high-quality paste will make a difference in the final taste; opt for one without additives.
- Oil: You can replace sunflower oil with olive oil for a more refined taste.
- Sugar: Adjust the amount of sugar based on how sweet the peppers are.

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by washing all the vegetables well. Cut the bell peppers, onion, and carrot into suitable pieces. The carrot can be grated to integrate better into the stew.

2. Boiling the rice: In a separate pot, boil the rice in salted water until it is half cooked. This step is essential as the rice will continue to absorb the liquid from the stew.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet or deep pot, heat the oil. Add the onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. Then, add the carrot and bell peppers. Cook the vegetables for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they change color and become slightly soft.

4. Adding the rice: Once the vegetables are ready, add the boiled rice and mix well. Let everything cook for a few minutes to combine the flavors.

5. Including the tomato paste: Add the tomato paste, sugar, and salt. Mix well to integrate all the ingredients. Let the stew simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Preserving: Once the stew is ready, pour it into sterilized jars. Make sure they are well sealed. Place the jars in a deep tray and add water until it reaches halfway up the jars. Bake in the oven at 100°C for 10 minutes to seal the jars. Let them cool gradually in the turned-off oven until the next day.

Serving and Suggestions
Winter stew is perfect served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. It is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side. You can pair it with a crisp green salad for a pleasant contrast.

Variations
- Additions: For a heartier version, you can add diced chicken or pork that is sautéed along with the vegetables.
- Spices: Experiment with spices like black pepper, paprika, or marjoram to personalize the flavors.
- Vegetarian: You can replace the rice with quinoa for a healthier, protein-rich option.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can the stew be frozen?
Yes, winter stew can freeze very well. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in freezing containers.

2. How long does it last in jars?
If well sealed and stored in a cool, dark place, jars of stew can last up to a year.

3. How can I enhance the flavor?
Adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving can bring a note of freshness.

Nutritional Benefits
Winter stew is rich in vitamins and minerals due to the fresh vegetables, especially vitamin C from the bell peppers and antioxidants from the carrots. A serving provides a healthy intake of fiber, supporting digestion.

Enjoy this winter stew recipe that combines nostalgia with authentic flavors! It is more than just a meal – it is a way to bring warmth into your home on cold winter days. Experiment and adapt the recipe to your tastes and enjoy every bite!