Lesson

Cook with Heart: Childhood Vegetable Stew

Welcome to my kitchen, a place filled with memories and aromas that take us back in time! Today, I invite you to prepare a simple yet tasty vegetable stew with me, combining fresh vegetables with the flavors of my childhood. This dish is also known as lecso and brings together the basic ingredients of the season, offering an unforgettable taste.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 3 organic yellow onions
- 6 organic bell peppers (a mix of red, yellow, and green for a vibrant appearance)
- 6-8 ripe organic tomatoes
- 4 organic eggs
- iodized salt, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons sunflower oil

A Bit of History:
Vegetable stew, or lecso, has deep roots in culinary tradition, a dish cherished by generations. This simple recipe shows us how fresh vegetables can be transformed into a delicious dish full of flavor. The stew was often cooked in country households, where fresh garden ingredients were at hand, and each family had its own personalized version.

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the 3 yellow onions. Slice them thinly. This will be the aromatic base of your stew.

2. Sautéing the onions: In a large pan, add 2-3 tablespoons of sunflower oil. When the oil is hot, add the onion slices and a few tablespoons of water. This trick helps the onions soften and become sweet without burning. Sauté the onions over low heat for about 5-7 minutes, until they become translucent and soft.

3. Preparing the peppers: Meanwhile, clean the 6 bell peppers and slice them into thin strips. You can choose peppers of different colors to add a splash of color to the dish. Add the pepper strips to the pan over the onions and mix well. Cover the pan and let it simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Adding the tomatoes: Wash the tomatoes and slice them thinly. After the 15 minutes, add the tomatoes to the pan, sprinkle iodized salt to taste, and mix everything. Cover the pan again and let it simmer over low heat for about 10 minutes, until the vegetables are well softened and have formed a delicious sauce.

5. Beating the eggs: In a separate bowl, beat the 4 organic eggs with a pinch of salt. Here’s an important trick: after you turn off the heat, add the beaten eggs to the vegetable mixture and stir vigorously. This step is essential to prevent the eggs from curdling. You will achieve thin strips of egg that will enrich the dish.

6. Serving: Serve the vegetable stew warm, alongside a slice of fresh homemade bread. You can also add a spoonful of sour cream for extra flavor.

Practical Tips:
- Choose quality ingredients: Use fresh, seasonal organic vegetables for a better taste.
- Experiment with spices: You can add herbs like basil or parsley to intensify the flavors.
- Variations: Depending on your preferences, you can add other vegetables like zucchini or eggplant, or even some slices of sausage for a richer taste.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Although fresh vegetables provide the best flavor, you can use frozen ones in a pinch, but cooking time may vary.
- What drinks pair well with this stew? A refreshing drink like lemonade or a dry white wine pairs perfectly with this dish.
- Can the stew be stored in the fridge? Yes, it can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat before serving.

Nutritional Benefits:
This vegetable stew is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, being rich in fiber and essential nutrients. Tomatoes are known for their lycopene content, a powerful antioxidant, while eggs provide quality protein. It can be an ideal choice for a healthy lunch or a light dinner.

I hope this recipe brings a touch of warmth and joy to your kitchen, just as it has to mine. Don't hesitate to try your own version and share with us how it turned out! Cooking is an art, and every recipe is an opportunity to create delicious memories. Enjoy your meal!