Stew with onion

Onion Stew - A Classic and Flavorful Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Onion stew is a traditional dish, full of flavors, that evokes pleasant memories and the comfort of a warm home. This simple recipe will teach you how to make a delicious stew, perfect for a family meal or to impress your guests. Let’s get started!

Ingredients:
- 500 g onion (about 4-5 large onions)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or sunflower oil
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow)
- 400 g tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 3-4 garlic cloves
- 1-2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon peppercorns
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water (about 500 ml)
- Fresh parsley for decoration

Instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the onions. Cut them into thin slices or cubes, depending on your preference. This will be the base of the stew. Wash the bell pepper, remove the seeds, and cut it into small cubes. If using fresh tomatoes, lightly sauté them, then cut them into cubes.

2. Sautéing the onions: In a large pot, add the oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chopped onions. Sauté the onions for 5-7 minutes or until they become translucent. This step is essential, as caramelized onions will add a deep and sweet flavor to the stew.

3. Adding the vegetables: Once the onions are sautéed, add the bell pepper and crushed (or finely chopped) garlic. Stir and let cook for another 3-4 minutes until the bell pepper becomes slightly soft.

4. Seasoning: Add the chopped tomatoes, peppercorns, bay leaves, salt, and pepper to taste. These spices will transform the stew into a true feast of flavors. Mix well to combine the ingredients.

5. Boiling: Pour water over the vegetable mixture so that it covers the ingredients (about 500 ml). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for 30-35 minutes. Check occasionally and add water if necessary.

6. Finishing the dish: After the stew has simmered, taste and adjust the seasonings. If you want to intensify the flavors, let it simmer uncovered for the last 5-10 minutes. This will help concentrate the flavors.

7. Serving: Serve the stew hot, sprinkled with freshly chopped parsley on top. It can be accompanied by polenta, rice, or fresh bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Helpful tips:
- If you want a heartier stew, add 200 g of diced beef or pork at step 3 and sauté it together with the onions.
- You can experiment with various vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to add extra nutrients and color.
- For a spicy taste, add a finely chopped hot pepper.

This onion stew is not only a simple and quick recipe but also an excellent way to enjoy traditional flavors. Savor every bite and let yourself be carried away by dear memories!