Potato stew with pickled green tomatoes

Potato Stew with Pickled Green Tomatoes

When you think of the comfort of a home-cooked meal, potato stew is certainly one of those recipes that brings back the flavors of childhood. This simple yet flavorful stew reminds us of moments spent around the table, the joy of sharing a dish that makes us feel at home. So, let's discover together how to prepare a delicious potato stew, with a special twist from pickled green tomatoes.

General Information
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 50 minutes
- Number of servings: 4-6

Necessary Ingredients
- 1 kg potatoes
- 2 large onions
- 1 carrot
- ½ parsnip
- 1 bell pepper
- 2-3 tablespoons tomato paste
- A bunch of fresh parsley
- A bunch of dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 2-3 tablespoons oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)

Recipe Story
Potato stew is a dish found in many cultures, each with its specific variations. This recipe, inspired by family culinary traditions, stands out with the fried potatoes that give it a special flavor. It is said that adding fresh vegetables and spices helps transform this simple dish into a true delicacy.

Step by Step to a Perfect Result

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by peeling the potatoes. Choose firm, unblemished potatoes to ensure you get a stew with a pleasant texture. Cut them into slices or cubes, being careful not to make them too small, so they don't break apart during cooking.

2. Frying the Potatoes
In a pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and let it heat up. Add the cut potatoes and lightly fry them until they develop a golden crust. It is important not to fry them too hard, just enough to get a crispy texture on the outside. This step will add a special flavor to the stew.

3. Preparing the Vegetables
In the same pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil, then the finely chopped onion, diced carrot and parsnip, and sliced bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a little water if you notice they are sticking to the pot. When the onion turns golden, add the tomato paste and mix well.

4. Adding Water and Spices
Add a cup of water, salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaves. Let it simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. It is essential to adjust the spices to your personal taste.

5. Combining the Ingredients
Here comes the climax: add the fried potatoes to the pot. Make sure they are well covered with the vegetable sauce. If necessary, top up with hot water to cover the potatoes. Let it simmer on low heat until the potatoes become tender, about 15-20 minutes.

6. Finalizing the Dish
When the potatoes are ready, turn off the heat and add the chopped parsley and dill. These fresh herbs will not only add a fresh flavor but also make the dish more visually appealing.

Serving and Suggestions
Serve the potato stew hot, alongside pickled green tomatoes for a perfect contrast between the sweetness of the potatoes and the acidity of the pickles. This combination will not only delight your taste buds but will also bring a touch of freshness to your meal.

Useful Tips
- If you want to add extra flavor, you can include some green or black olives during cooking.
- Instead of tomato paste, you can use fresh or canned tomatoes for a more vibrant taste.
- If you desire a spicy version, feel free to add some slices of hot pepper.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes will provide a different but equally delicious flavor!
- What is the best type of oil for frying?
Sunflower or olive oil is ideal, but you can experiment with coconut oil for a distinct flavor.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits
A serving of potato stew contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the servings and the amount of oil used. This recipe is rich in healthy carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, thanks to the fresh vegetables.

Variations of the Recipe
- You can replace the potatoes with zucchini or eggplant for a vegetarian version!
- Add some mushrooms for a different taste and texture.

Potato stew is a simple yet soulful recipe. Whether you prepare it for an everyday meal or to share with loved ones, it is an excellent choice that will bring joy and warmth to every plate. Enjoy your meal!