Vegetable stew

Oven-Baked Vegetable Stew: A Symphony of Flavors and Colors

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Welcome to my kitchen! Today we will embark on a classic yet vibrant and comforting recipe: the oven-baked vegetable stew. This dish is not just an explosion of colors and flavors, but also an excellent way to consume fresh, nutrient-rich vegetables. The vegetable stew has a long history, being a beloved dish due to its versatility. It can be served as a main course or a side dish, and its flavor improves as it cools, making it ideal for the next day’s lunch.

Ingredients

- 1 medium potato (approximately 150 g)
- 1 leek (approximately 100 g)
- 2 green onions
- 200 g green beans (fresh or frozen)
- 2 carrots (approximately 150 g)
- 1 eggplant (approximately 200 g)
- 1 zucchini (approximately 200 g)
- 1 bell pepper (approximately 150 g)
- 1 sweet pepper (approximately 150 g)
- 4 medium tomatoes (approximately 400 g)
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive or sunflower oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Ingredient Details

Each ingredient in this vegetable stew plays an important role. The potato adds heartiness, while the leek and green onions provide a delicate flavor. The carrot brings a touch of sweetness, and the green beans add a crunchy texture. The eggplant and zucchini contribute a fine note, while the peppers offer a burst of color. The tomatoes are essential for creating a delicious sauce that binds all the flavors together.

Preparation Technique

1. Preparing the Vegetables: Start by washing all the vegetables well. Cut the potato, carrot, eggplant, zucchini, and peppers into larger pieces to maintain their texture. Slice the leek and green onions, and leave the green beans whole if they are smaller.

2. Sautéing the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the leek and green onions, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent. Continue with the carrot and potato, cooking for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step will intensify the flavors and prepare the vegetables for baking.

3. Adding the Other Vegetables: Once the vegetables start to soften, add the remaining vegetables: green beans, eggplant, zucchini, and peppers. Mix well to combine the flavors.

4. Boiling: Add a glass of water (approximately 250 ml) and let everything simmer on low heat for 15 minutes. This step will help the vegetables release their juices and combine into a delicious taste.

5. Transferring to the Oven: After the vegetables have boiled, transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Cut the tomatoes in half and place them on top. Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil to retain moisture.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the stew for 1 hour and 30 minutes. This time will allow the vegetables to caramelize and combine perfectly, creating a delicious dish.

Serving

Once the stew is ready, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. You can drizzle a bit of olive oil and add some fresh parsley or basil for an extra touch of freshness. This vegetable stew pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or a serving of rice.

Possible Variations

This recipe is extremely versatile! You can add other seasonal vegetables like pumpkin, broccoli, or cauliflower. You can also include herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor. If you desire a spicier version, add a bit of hot pepper.

Nutritional Benefits

This vegetable stew is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to a healthy and balanced diet. Fresh vegetables are an excellent source of antioxidants, and baking them preserves essential nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables are an excellent option, especially if you don’t have access to fresh ones. Just make sure to thaw them before adding them to the recipe.

2. How can I store the stew?
The stew stores well in the fridge in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

3. What drinks pair well with the vegetable stew?
A fresh green salad or a glass of dry white wine can perfectly complement this dish.

Final Notes

Preparing an oven-baked vegetable stew is an activity that not only brings joy to the kitchen but also to the plate. It’s an excellent way to experiment with fresh ingredients and create a dish full of flavor and color. Try this recipe and bring a touch of health and joy into your life and that of your loved ones!