Summer stew in the middle of winter

Summer stew in the middle of winter: A vibrant and nourishing recipe

Who says winter can't be the season for fresh vegetables and colorful dishes? This summer stew harmoniously combines vegetables with chicken breast, offering you a delicious meal full of vitamins and flavors. It is a simple and quick recipe, perfect for days when you don't know what to cook but want something healthy and comforting.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 2 pieces of chicken breast (approximately 400 g)
- 2 medium carrots
- 1 broccoli (approximately 300 g)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 large red bell pepper
- 2 medium potatoes
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (400 g)
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil (or other vegetable oil)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped

Recipe history:

This stew has its roots in culinary traditions of using seasonal ingredients. Over the years, recipes for meat and vegetable dishes have evolved, adapting to local tastes and ingredients. Today, this stew is a symbol of comfort, perfect for bringing warmth on a cold winter day.

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by washing all the vegetables well. Chop the onions finely, slice the carrots into thin rounds, dice the bell pepper, and cube the potatoes into about 1-2 cm pieces. Break the broccoli into small florets. These preparations will help you achieve a uniform and colorful stew.

2. Cooking the onions:
In a large pot or deep pan, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-5 minutes. This step will bring a delicious aroma and form the base for the stew.

3. Adding the meat:
Cut the chicken breast into approximately 2 cm cubes. Add it to the pot over the onions and cook until it turns white, stirring occasionally. This step will seal in the meat's juices, keeping it tender.

4. Stewing the ingredients:
Once the meat is white, add a little warm water (about 100 ml) and let everything stew, covering the pot with a lid for 5-10 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together.

5. Adding the vegetables:
Start adding the vegetables in order of their hardness, beginning with the carrots and potatoes, as they need more time to cook. Stir well and let it boil for 10 minutes.

6. Broccoli and tomatoes:
Add the broccoli florets and the can of diced tomatoes. These will bring a pleasant acidity and vibrant color. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Continue cooking everything for 10-15 minutes, until all the vegetables are tender but not overly soft.

7. Finishing the stew:
Once everything is cooked, turn off the heat and add the chopped parsley. This will add a fresh and aromatic note to your dish.

Serving suggestions:

This stew is perfect served with a slice of fresh bread or alongside a portion of white rice or pilaf. You can also pair it with a glass of dry white wine, which will enhance the flavors of the vegetables and meat.

Tips and variations:

- You can add other vegetables such as zucchini or green beans, depending on your preferences.
- If you want a more intense flavor, try adding spices like paprika or herbs (oregano, basil).
- Instead of chicken breast, this recipe can be adapted with beef or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

Nutritional benefits:

This stew is rich in protein due to the chicken breast and packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. Broccoli and carrots are excellent sources of antioxidants, while tomatoes are high in lycopene, a compound beneficial for heart health.

Calories:

A serving of stew contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the oil used and the exact amount of meat and vegetables.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, but the cooking time may be slightly shorter.

2. How can I make the stew spicier?
You can add hot peppers or spicy seasonings to give it a more intense flavor.

3. Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely! The stew keeps well in the fridge and can be reheated, making it perfect for quick lunches.

In conclusion, this summer stew in the middle of winter is not just a simple recipe but also a wonderful way to bring joy and warmth to your plate. Take advantage of the season and enjoy the colors and flavors of fresh vegetables, even on the coldest winter days!