Potato stew

Potato stew is a comforting dish, full of flavor and nostalgia, evoking childhood memories and moments spent with loved ones. This simple and versatile recipe can be adapted based on available ingredients, turning every meal into a true celebration of flavors.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes (approximately 800g)
- 2 medium carrots
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 large onion
- 2 cloves of garlic (optional)
- 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1-2 smoked sausages (approximately 200g) or chicken
- 1/2 celery (optional)
- 1/2 liter of water (or enough to cover the ingredients)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish

Preparation of Ingredients
Start by washing the potatoes, carrots, bell pepper, and celery. It is important to use fresh ingredients to ensure a vibrant taste. Potatoes can be used with skin, but if you prefer a finer texture, you can peel them. Carrots can be grated or cut into small cubes, depending on your preferences. The bell pepper is diced, and the onion is finely chopped. If you choose to use garlic, crush the cloves with the blade of a knife and chop them finely.

Step 1: Sautéing the Vegetables and Meat
In a large skillet or deep pot, add the olive oil and let it heat over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and bell pepper, stirring gently. Allow the vegetables to sauté for 5-7 minutes until they become translucent and slightly soft. If using garlic, add it in the last 2 minutes of sautéing to prevent burning.

If you choose to add sausages, cut them into rounds or cubes and add them to the skillet with the vegetables. They will add a smoky and savory flavor to the dish.

Step 2: Adding the Potatoes and Water
Once the vegetables are sautéed, add the potatoes cut into large cubes. Stir well to combine the flavors. Now, pour water over the ingredients in the skillet, enough to cover them. You can adjust the amount of water based on your preferences – a thicker stew will have less water, while a juicier one will require more liquid.

Step 3: Cooking the Stew
Cover the skillet and let the stew simmer on low heat for 25-30 minutes. Check occasionally, stirring gently to prevent the ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the skillet. During this time, the potatoes will soften and absorb the flavors of the vegetables and meat.

Step 4: Finishing the Dish
Once the potatoes are well cooked, adjust the taste with salt and pepper. Finally, add the chopped fresh parsley, which will bring an extra touch of freshness and color to the dish.

Serving
Potato stew is served warm, ideally alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. You can accompany it with yogurt or sour cream, which will add a creamy and refreshing note. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade will perfectly complement this comforting meal.

Variations and Tips
Potato stew is extremely versatile. You can replace the sausages with beef or simply use a vegetarian option by adding chickpeas or lentils. You can also experiment with different spices, such as sweet paprika or herbs like oregano or thyme, to further customize the flavor.

Nutritional Benefits
This stew is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates from potatoes, providing long-lasting energy. The vegetables bring essential fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while the sausages, depending on the type chosen, can provide proteins and healthy fats. It is a nutrient-rich dish, ideal for a nourishing meal.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables are a quick and convenient option. Just make sure to thaw them before adding them to the skillet.

2. How can I make the stew spicier?
Add chili peppers or chili flakes during the sautéing of the vegetables for an extra kick.

3. Can the stew be kept for the next day?
Absolutely! Potato stew tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

4. What other recipes can I try with the same ingredients?
You can use the same vegetables and meat to prepare a delicious puree or soup. You can also try a gulyás dish by adding paprika and potatoes.

Potato stew is more than just a recipe; it is an invitation to share beautiful moments with family and friends. Enjoy every bite and let yourself be carried away by the lovely memories this dish can bring. Enjoy your meal!