Potato stew

Potato stew - a simple and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

When it comes to culinary comfort, potato stew is definitely a dish that evokes nostalgic memories. This simple recipe is tied to traditions, bringing flavors from childhood to our table, when fresh and tasty ingredients were the norm. You may not have had the chance to enjoy a sophisticated meal during your upbringing, but you surely savored a potato stew, filled with aromatic vegetables and fresh herbs.

Your ingredients will be:

- 7-8 large potatoes (about 1.5 kg)
- 1 medium onion
- 1 carrot
- 1/2 bell pepper
- 200 g peeled tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 bunch of fresh dill
- 3 tablespoons of sunflower or olive oil
- 1 heaping tablespoon of tomato paste
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil (optional, for extra flavor)

Expert tip: Choose potatoes that are firm and blemish-free. New potatoes will add a slightly sweet texture to your stew, while older ones will provide a more substantial base.

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

Start by peeling the potatoes. Wash them well under running water, then remove the skin. Cut them into 8 pieces, depending on their size. Larger potatoes can be cut into smaller pieces to cook evenly.

Next, peel and finely chop the onion. Peel the carrot and cut it in half lengthwise, then into thin slices. Dice the bell pepper, and if you don't have canned tomatoes ready, chop the peeled tomatoes.

Step 2: Cooking the vegetables

In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and carrot, then the bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. This step will enhance the flavors and add a special taste to your stew.

Step 3: Adding the potatoes

Add the potatoes to the pot and mix well with the sautéed vegetables. Pour enough water to cover all the ingredients. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and sweet paprika, stirring to distribute the spices evenly.

Expert tip: Good quality water makes a difference. If you have spring or filtered water, use it for a purer taste.

Step 4: Cooking the stew

Let the stew simmer over medium heat. When the potatoes start to become tender (about 15-20 minutes), add the dried basil and chopped dill. This will add a fresh and aromatic note to the dish.

Step 5: Finishing the dish

Once the potatoes are cooked, add the peeled tomatoes and let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are fully cooked. If you prefer a thicker stew, let it reduce a bit, and if you like it more fluid, you can add a little water.

Finally, incorporate the tomato paste and let it cook for a maximum of 2 minutes. This will give a richer flavor and a beautiful color to the dish.

Step 6: Serving

Turn off the heat and let the stew cool slightly. Serve it warm, alongside pickles or a fresh vegetable salad. A fantastic combination is with pickled cucumbers, which add a crunchy and tangy note, perfect to contrast with the creamy texture of the stew.

Personal tip: Add a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar to the stew before serving for a surprising taste!

Nutritional benefits: Potato stew is rich in complex carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins, making it an excellent source of energy. Potatoes contain vitamin C, potassium, and vitamin B6, while the vegetables add essential antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I add other vegetables?
Of course! Carrots and bell peppers can be replaced with zucchini, eggplant, or even green peas. Be creative!

2. Can the stew be made without tomatoes?
Yes, you can omit the tomatoes and add more water or vegetable broth to maintain moisture.

3. How can I preserve this stew?
The stew keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, and to keep it longer, you can freeze it in individual portions.

This potato stew recipe is easy to make, full of flavor and nostalgia, bringing joy to every bowl. Prepare it with love and savor every bite! Whether you serve it on fasting days or any ordinary day, this simple recipe will surely remain in your heart, just as it has in mine. Enjoy your meal!