Vegetable stew of all kinds

Vegetable Stew – A Simple and Vitamin-Packed Dish

Preparation Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 50 minutes Number of Servings: 4

If you are looking for a delicious and healthy recipe, vegetable stew is the perfect choice! This dish is not only a feast for the senses but also an excellent option for fasting days or for those who want to diversify their diet with vegetarian dishes. Whether you are an experienced cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will win you over with its ease of preparation and enticing flavors.

A Bit of History

Vegetable stew has a rich history, being a traditional dish in many cultures, especially among those who appreciate seasonal vegetables. Each ingredient used can vary depending on availability, making this recipe extremely versatile. Over time, stew has been an ingenious way to utilize surplus vegetables, transforming them into a tasty and filling dish.

Ingredients

- 2 medium onions
- 6 medium potatoes
- 1 large green bell pepper
- 1 large red bell pepper
- 1/2 large eggplant
- 2 large tomatoes
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (preferably homemade)
- 2 tablespoons oil (preferably olive oil or sunflower oil)
- 1/2 bunch fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste

Steps for Preparing Vegetable Stew

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by cleaning the vegetables. Wash the potatoes well and cut them into cubes. Boil them in a pot of salted water over medium heat. Once the water starts to boil, let them cook for about 15 minutes until they become slightly soft. After boiling, drain them and set aside.

2. Cleaning and Cutting the Vegetables
Move on to the other vegetables. Start with the onion, slicing it into thin strips (julienne). Continue with the bell pepper, removing the seeds and cutting it lengthwise into smaller strips. If you find it difficult to peel the vegetables, you can ask a friend or a family member for help – cooking is more fun in company!

3. Sautéing the Vegetables
In a large pan, heat the oil. Add the onion and let it sauté on low heat for one minute, then add the sliced bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. Adding the Eggplant
Peel the eggplant and cut it into cubes, then add it to the pan over the onion and bell pepper. Mix well and let it sauté for another 5 minutes.

5. Preparing the Tomatoes
To add the tomatoes, it is ideal to peel them. If you can't peel them easily, you can dip them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then transfer them to cold water; this will make the skin come off more easily. Cut the tomatoes into cubes and add them to the pan. Let them simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Finishing the Stew
After the vegetables have simmered, add 1/2 cup of water, ketchup, salt, and pepper to taste. Continue cooking for another 10 minutes until the vegetables are well cooked and the flavors have combined. Finally, add the boiled potatoes and chopped parsley. Let it cook for another 3-4 minutes.

7. Serving
The vegetable stew can be served warm, sprinkled with fresh parsley on top. You can also add smoked tofu for an extra flavor and texture. It pairs excellently with a slice of fresh bread or a green salad.

Useful Tips

- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini, peas, or carrots, according to your preferences.
- Different Flavors: Instead of ketchup, you can use tomato paste for a more concentrated taste, or add spices like paprika or herbs (oregano, basil) for an extra flavor boost.
- Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I add meat? Of course! You can add diced chicken or pork after sautéing the vegetables.
- What is the nutritional value of this recipe? Vegetable stew is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet. One serving contains approximately 250 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Delicious Combinations

Vegetable stew is versatile and can be paired with various dishes. Rice or quinoa are excellent alongside this stew. Additionally, a refreshing drink, such as mint tea or tomato juice, can perfectly complement this meal.

In the end, I hope you enjoy this vegetable stew recipe and share it with your loved ones! It is a dish that brings together not only healthy ingredients but also a beautiful story in every plate. Bon appétit!