Pepper and mushroom stew

Pepper and Mushroom Stew – a vegetarian delight full of flavors

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to my kitchen! Today I will share with you a recipe for pepper and mushroom stew, a simple yet flavorful dish, perfect for lunch or dinner. This stew is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it an excellent choice for a healthy and nourishing meal.

The pepper and mushroom stew has deep roots in culinary tradition, being a recipe that combines accessible and flavorful ingredients. In many cultures, stews are dishes that bring together fresh vegetables, spices, and aromatic herbs, creating a symphony of flavors. This dish is often served with sides like polenta, adding a rustic and savory touch.

Ingredients

- 5 bell peppers (preferably of different colors for a more attractive appearance)
- 300 g canned mushrooms (you can also use fresh mushrooms, but you will need to cook them a bit longer)
- 3 medium onions
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 1 can of tomatoes with sauce (about 400 g)
- ½ cup vegetable broth (or water, but broth will add more flavor)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (for a more intense taste)
- A bunch of fresh parsley (for garnish and flavor)
- Salt, pepper, to taste
- Oil (for sautéing)

Step by step

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by finely chopping the onion. Choose white or yellow onion, depending on your preference. Wash the peppers well, remove the seeds, and slice them. If using fresh mushrooms, clean and slice them. Sauté the garlic and chopped parsley, which will add a fresh aroma to the dish.

2. Sautéing the onion
In a deep skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until it becomes translucent and slightly golden. This will form the flavorful base of your stew.

3. Adding the mushrooms
Add the mushrooms to the skillet and mix well. Let them cook for 5 minutes until softened. If you choose fresh mushrooms, you will need to cook them a little longer until the water evaporates.

4. Boiling with vegetable broth
Add ½ cup of vegetable broth and let the stew simmer for 20 minutes. This step is important as it will help develop the flavors and allow the ingredients to combine.

5. Including the peppers
After 20 minutes, add the sliced peppers to the skillet. Let them simmer for 10 minutes. The peppers will add a touch of sweetness and a crunchy texture to the dish.

6. Tomatoes and tomato paste
Now it’s time to add the chopped canned tomatoes and tomato paste. These will enrich the stew with an intense, delicious flavor. Mix well and let it simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reduces and thickens.

7. Seasoning
Once the stew has reached the desired consistency, add salt, pepper, chopped garlic, and fresh parsley. Mix well to combine the flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

8. Serving
The stew is ready! Serve it hot, alongside creamy polenta or fresh bread. A slice of homemade bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce!

Practical tips

- Ingredient variations: You can experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or champignon. You can also add carrots or zucchini to diversify the texture and flavor.
- Parsley: If you don’t have parsley, you can use dill or fresh basil for a different aroma.
- Intensifying flavors: If you like a spicier taste, you can add chili flakes or a fresh chopped chili.
- Cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the type of peppers or mushrooms used, so it’s good to check the texture of the vegetables along the way.

Calories and nutritional benefits

A serving of pepper and mushroom stew has approximately 180-220 calories, depending on the amount of oil used. This is a nourishing option, rich in vitamins and minerals. Peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C and antioxidants, while mushrooms are high in fiber and plant protein. This recipe is ideal for those looking to reduce meat consumption or adopt a vegetarian diet.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use frozen mushrooms?
Yes, you can also use frozen mushrooms, but make sure to thaw them well before adding them to the stew.

- Can it be prepared in advance?
Absolutely! The pepper and mushroom stew can be prepared in advance and keeps well in the refrigerator. The flavor gets even better after sitting for a few hours as the flavors intensify.

- What other recipes can it be combined with?
This stew pairs wonderfully with polenta, but also with rice or pasta. It can also be served alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Personal note

This recipe for pepper and mushroom stew reminds me of the days spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, where the aromas of fresh vegetables intertwined with family stories. It’s a dish that not only satisfies the taste buds but also the soul. I encourage you to try this recipe and personalize it to your liking. Whether you add spices or other vegetables, each variation will bring a special touch to your table!

Don’t forget to share with us how your stew turned out! Enjoy your meal!