Vegetable stew with zucchini

Vegetable stew with zucchini – a delicious and colorful recipe, perfect for keeping the taste of summer during the cold winter months. Zucchini are the stars of this dish, with their fine and slightly sweet texture that pairs perfectly with the other vegetables. Additionally, this stew is an excellent choice to add a touch of health to your diet, thanks to its rich content of vitamins and minerals.

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Cooking time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12 jars of 700 g

Necessary ingredients:

- 1/2 l sunflower oil (or olive oil for a more intense flavor)
- 1 kg onion (choose white or yellow onions, both add sweetness to the dish)
- 1 kg carrots (carrots bring a note of sweetness, and their vibrant color makes the stew more appealing)
- 2 kg bell peppers (choose peppers of various colors for a colorful appearance)
- 3 kg zucchini (preferably young, juicier zucchini)
- 500 g rice (preferably long-grain rice, which absorbs flavors well)
- Fresh parsley and dill leaves (for a fresh and aromatic touch)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Preparing the vegetables:
Start by washing all the vegetables under cold running water to remove impurities. The peppers can be roasted in the oven until the skin becomes slightly charred; this process will give them a smoky flavor. Once roasted, let them cool, peel off the skin, and cut them into strips.

2. Zucchini:
Cut the zucchini into cubes and sprinkle a little salt over them. Let them sit for 30 minutes to allow excess water to escape. This step will help achieve a thicker stew without excess water.

3. Carrots and tomatoes:
Grate the carrots using a large grater. The tomatoes can be peeled by immersing them in hot water for 30 seconds, then in cold water. Cut them into cubes and let them drain in a colander.

4. Rice:
Rinse the rice in 3-4 waters, alternating cold water with hot water. Then, put it to boil in cold water, using three times the amount of water compared to rice. Let it boil for 10 minutes, then turn off the heat and cover the pot, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid for 20-30 minutes. After this time, rinse it with cold water and drain well.

5. Sterilizing the jars:
Wash 12-13 jars of 700 g and place them in the oven for sterilization at 100°C for 15-20 minutes. This step is essential to prevent bacteria growth and ensure long-term preservation.

6. Cooking the stew:
In a large pot (approximately 15 l), heat the oil and add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes golden yellow, then add the grated carrots. Mix well and let them cook together for 5-6 minutes. Add a small cup of water, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.

7. Adding the vegetables:
Add the roasted and sliced peppers, followed by the zucchini and drained tomatoes. Mix everything well, cover the pot, and let it simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes. Check occasionally to prevent sticking.

8. Finishing the stew:
When the vegetables have softened and the liquid has reduced, add the cooked rice and mix gently. Simmer everything together for another 15 minutes, seasoning with salt, pepper, and adding chopped parsley and dill leaves.

9. Preserving the stew:
Turn off the heat and fill the sterilized jars with hot stew. Seal the jars and cover them with blankets to cool slowly. The next day, you can do a second sterilization in a water bath, boiling the jars for 20 minutes from the start of boiling.

10. Labeling:
Once the jars have completely cooled, label them with the date and contents and store them in a cool, dark place.

Chef's tip:
Zucchini can be used in various fall recipes. Feel free to use them in making zacuscă, where alongside eggplants, they provide a more easily digestible texture. You can also experiment with spices – adding garlic or chili can transform the recipe into a spicier version.

Nutritional benefits:
This stew is rich in vitamins A and C, thanks to the vegetables used. Zucchini are an excellent source of antioxidants and are low in calories. A serving of stew will provide a hearty yet healthy meal, ideal for those looking to maintain their weight or adopt a healthy lifestyle.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I add other vegetables to the stew?
Yes, you can add vegetables like green beans, pumpkin, or even mushrooms for a different flavor.

2. How can I make the stew spicier?
Add chopped chili or spices like smoked paprika to enhance the flavors.

3. Is sterilizing the jars necessary?
Yes, sterilization is essential to prevent bacteria growth and ensure long-term preservation.

This vegetable stew with zucchini will surely become a favorite recipe in your family. Enjoy it alongside a slice of fresh bread or with a summer salad, and savor every bite, knowing you have preserved the taste of summer for the cold winter days! Bon appétit!