Potato stew with bacon

Potato stew with bacon - A delicious, comforting, and easy-to-prepare recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Who doesn't love a warm stew, full of flavors and taste? The potato stew with bacon is a dish that brings a touch of nostalgia and comfort to every home. This simple and delicious recipe combines the rich taste of potatoes with the inviting aroma of bacon, resulting in a perfect meal for chilly days.

The history of stews is long, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures, where humble ingredients are transformed into delicious dishes through slow cooking. It’s the kind of food that brings families together and can easily be adapted based on the season or available ingredients.

Basic ingredients:
- 1500 g potatoes (preferably red or yellow for creaminess)
- 2 carrots (their juice adds a touch of sweetness)
- 6 onions (for a rich and flavorful taste)
- 1 bell pepper (fresh or frozen, as preferred)
- 500 g bacon (for an extra flavor boost)
- 50 ml oil (olive or sunflower)
- 300 ml tomato juice (or crushed tomatoes for a natural taste)
- 2 tablespoons of Iutica (a spice that adds a special note)
- Salt, pepper, thyme, sweet paprika (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (for decoration)

Step by step, let’s get to work!

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by peeling and washing the potatoes, carrots, and onions. Cut the potatoes into equal-sized cubes so they cook evenly. The carrots and onions can be diced small to easily integrate into the dish. The bell pepper can be used fresh or frozen, depending on availability. If using frozen bell pepper, ensure it is well thawed before adding.

2. Sautéing the vegetables
In a large pot, add the oil and let it heat up. When it starts to sizzle, add the onions, carrots, and bell pepper. Sprinkle salt, thyme, pepper, and sweet paprika. These spices will not only enhance the flavors but will turn the vegetables into a delicious base for the stew. Let them sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the onions become translucent and change to a golden hue.

3. Adding the potatoes
Once the vegetables are sautéed, add the diced potatoes. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, then pour enough water to cover the potatoes. Bring to a boil and reduce the heat to medium. Let them simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes become tender.

4. Cooking the bacon
Meanwhile, in a separate pan, add 10 ml of oil and fry the bacon. Cook until it becomes crispy and develops a brown color. The aroma of the bacon will add a hearty note to your dish. Once the bacon is ready, remove it onto a paper towel to absorb excess fat.

5. Finishing the stew
Once the potatoes are well cooked, add the fried bacon to the pot. Incorporate the two tablespoons of Iutica and the tomato juice, stirring gently so as not to break the texture of the potatoes. Adjust with salt and pepper to taste. Let everything simmer together for another 5-7 minutes, so the flavors combine perfectly.

6. Serving
Before serving, add the chopped fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness and color. This stew is served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta, to perfectly complete the meal. Enjoy your meal!

Practical tips:
- You can add other vegetables to the stew, such as peas or zucchini, to make it more nutritious.
- Substitute the bacon with chicken breast or a vegetarian option, such as mushrooms, for a lighter recipe.
- If you like a spicier taste, add a chopped chili pepper during the sautéing of the vegetables.

Nutritional benefits:
This stew is an excellent source of healthy carbohydrates from potatoes, vitamins and minerals from vegetables, as well as protein from bacon. It is a hearty dish, perfect for the whole family.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes will add a touch of sweetness and a slightly different taste, but the cooking time may be reduced as they cook faster.

2. Can I prepare this stew in advance?
Yes, the stew can be made a day ahead and keeps very well in the refrigerator. The flavor will intensify as it cools.

3. What other spices can I add?
You can experiment with spices like rosemary, oregano, or even curry for an exotic note.

This potato stew with bacon recipe is not just a delicious dish, but also a wonderful way to bring the family together around the table. Prepare it with love and enjoy every bite!