Green bean stew with potatoes and bell peppers

The green bean stew with potatoes and bell peppers is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the tastes of fresh vegetables with a comforting flavor. This recipe is perfect for cool days when we want to enjoy a healthy and nutritious meal. Additionally, it is an excellent choice for vegans if we omit the chicken thighs.

The total preparation time is approximately 45 minutes, and this recipe will serve 4 delicious portions.

Required ingredients:
- 1 can of green beans (approximately 800 g)
- 3-4 medium potatoes
- 1 white onion
- 1/2 red bell pepper
- 1 carrot
- 1/2 can of diced tomatoes (approximately 200 g)
- 1-2 chicken thighs (optional)
- Olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- (Optional) dill or parsley for garnish

Cooking instructions:
1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by washing all the ingredients well. Chop the onion, bell pepper, and carrot into small cubes, and cut the potatoes into medium-sized cubes so they cook evenly.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and let it sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. This step is essential for developing the base flavors of the dish.

3. Adding the vegetables: Once the onion is sautéed, add the bell pepper and carrot. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then, add the diced potatoes and mix well. Let the vegetables cook together for another 5 minutes.

4. Including the meat (optional): If you choose to use chicken thighs, add them to the pot now. Season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

5. Adding the green beans: Rinse the green beans under cold water to remove any impurities. Add the beans to the pot and mix everything well.

6. Boiling the dish: Add enough water to cover all the ingredients. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes. Check occasionally to ensure that the ingredients are not sticking to the bottom of the pot.

7. Adding the tomatoes and garlic: When the water has reduced and the vegetables are almost cooked, add the diced tomatoes and crushed garlic. These ingredients will provide a rich flavor and delicious aroma. Mix well and let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes until all the vegetables are tender.

8. Finalizing the dish: Taste the stew and adjust the salt and pepper if necessary. If desired, you can add chopped dill or parsley for an extra touch of freshness.

Serving:
The green bean stew with potatoes and bell peppers is wonderful served warm, alongside crunchy pickles. The latter adds a note of acidity that perfectly complements the sweet taste of the vegetables. You can enjoy it with a slice of fresh or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Variations and tips:
- Variations: You can experiment with other vegetables depending on the season, such as zucchini or eggplant. Also, you can replace the chicken thighs with a vegetarian alternative, such as tofu or tempeh, to make the dish completely vegan.
- Added flavors: If you like it spicy, add a finely chopped chili pepper or a splash of chili sauce during cooking for an extra kick.
- Make-ahead: This dish can also be prepared in advance, and the flavors will become even more pronounced if left to sit for a few hours or overnight.

Nutritional benefits:
This dish is an excellent source of protein, fiber, and vitamins. Green beans are rich in antioxidants, and the vegetables add considerable nutritional value. It is a healthy choice with a moderate calorie content, suitable for any diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use fresh green beans? Yes, you can use fresh green beans, but you will need to blanch them a bit before adding them to the dish.
- How can I make the dish spicier? You can add spices like hot paprika or chili powder to increase the spice level.
- Is this dish good for freezing? Yes, the dish can be frozen and will keep well for a few months. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in airtight containers.

The green bean stew with potatoes and bell peppers is not only a comforting dish but also a delicious way to enjoy vegetables and enrich your meals with healthy flavors. Try this simple and tasty recipe and share it with your loved ones!