Tomato Stew - a simple and flavorful delicacy
Total preparation time: 45 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4
When we think of traditional recipes, tomato stew brings to mind moments spent with family, the abundant meals during weekends. This simple and comforting dish is versatile and can quickly become a family favorite. Moreover, it is a quick recipe, ideal for busy days, but also offers an explosion of flavors and nutritional benefits.
Ingredients:
- 4 fresh tomatoes or 3-4 tablespoons of tomato paste (depending on the season)
- 1 large onion
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons of Vegeta (or a favorite spice mix)
- Water, as needed
Step by step in preparing the tomato stew:
1. Preparing the tomatoes: If using fresh tomatoes, wash them well, remove the stems, and boil them in a pot of water. Let them boil for 10-15 minutes until the skin starts to crack. This step will not only make peeling easier but also help intensify the flavors. After boiling, drain the water and puree the tomatoes with a blender or fork until you get a smooth puree or paste.
2. Preparing the base: In a large skillet, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion. Cook the onion for 3-4 minutes until it becomes golden and translucent. Then add the tablespoon of flour and mix well. This will help thicken the sauce and add a pleasant texture. Be careful not to let the flour burn!
3. Adding the tomatoes: Once the onion and flour are well combined, add the tomato paste obtained earlier. If you decided to use store-bought tomato paste, now is the time to add it. Mix everything together, gradually adding a little water, depending on the desired consistency. It is important not to let the stew become too thick, so adjust with water according to your preferences.
4. Including the bell pepper: Cut the bell pepper into small cubes and add it to the stew. This will add not only a sweet flavor but also a vibrant color to the dish. Mix well and let it simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Finalizing the dish: After the stew has boiled, add salt and Vegeta to taste. Taste and adjust the seasonings according to your preferences. Finally, add the chopped parsley for an extra touch of flavor and freshness.
6. Serving: The tomato stew can be served warm, alongside a generous portion of rice, polenta, or fresh bread. It can turn into a delicious vegetarian dish, but can also be accompanied by grilled meat for those who prefer a heartier meal.
Useful tips:
- If you want to add a touch of originality, you can also add other vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, or even eggplant. These will enrich the flavor of the stew and provide a variety of tastes.
- If you have them on hand, you can add spices like basil or oregano, which pair perfectly with tomatoes and will bring a Mediterranean note to the dish.
- Make sure to use quality tomatoes, preferably in season, as they have a much more intense flavor and unmistakable aroma.
Nutritional benefits:
Tomato stew is rich in vitamins and minerals. Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the body. Onions and parsley also add essential nutrients and contribute to a healthy immune system.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can this stew be made vegan? Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan, but make sure to use fresh vegetables and quality olive oil.
- Can I freeze the stew? Yes, tomato stew freezes very well. Let it cool completely, then place it in airtight containers, and you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
- What goes well with the stew? It pairs excellently with a fresh salad, a dry white wine, or even a glass of mineral water to balance the flavors.
Tomato stew is more than just a simple dish; it is a family story, a symbol of comfort and the joy of cooking. Whether you prepare it for a family meal or just for yourself, every bite will bring a smile to your face. So gather your ingredients and let's cook! Enjoy your meal!
Total preparation time: 45 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4
When we think of traditional recipes, tomato stew brings to mind moments spent with family, the abundant meals during weekends. This simple and comforting dish is versatile and can quickly become a family favorite. Moreover, it is a quick recipe, ideal for busy days, but also offers an explosion of flavors and nutritional benefits.
Ingredients:
- 4 fresh tomatoes or 3-4 tablespoons of tomato paste (depending on the season)
- 1 large onion
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons of Vegeta (or a favorite spice mix)
- Water, as needed
Step by step in preparing the tomato stew:
1. Preparing the tomatoes: If using fresh tomatoes, wash them well, remove the stems, and boil them in a pot of water. Let them boil for 10-15 minutes until the skin starts to crack. This step will not only make peeling easier but also help intensify the flavors. After boiling, drain the water and puree the tomatoes with a blender or fork until you get a smooth puree or paste.
2. Preparing the base: In a large skillet, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion. Cook the onion for 3-4 minutes until it becomes golden and translucent. Then add the tablespoon of flour and mix well. This will help thicken the sauce and add a pleasant texture. Be careful not to let the flour burn!
3. Adding the tomatoes: Once the onion and flour are well combined, add the tomato paste obtained earlier. If you decided to use store-bought tomato paste, now is the time to add it. Mix everything together, gradually adding a little water, depending on the desired consistency. It is important not to let the stew become too thick, so adjust with water according to your preferences.
4. Including the bell pepper: Cut the bell pepper into small cubes and add it to the stew. This will add not only a sweet flavor but also a vibrant color to the dish. Mix well and let it simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Finalizing the dish: After the stew has boiled, add salt and Vegeta to taste. Taste and adjust the seasonings according to your preferences. Finally, add the chopped parsley for an extra touch of flavor and freshness.
6. Serving: The tomato stew can be served warm, alongside a generous portion of rice, polenta, or fresh bread. It can turn into a delicious vegetarian dish, but can also be accompanied by grilled meat for those who prefer a heartier meal.
Useful tips:
- If you want to add a touch of originality, you can also add other vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, or even eggplant. These will enrich the flavor of the stew and provide a variety of tastes.
- If you have them on hand, you can add spices like basil or oregano, which pair perfectly with tomatoes and will bring a Mediterranean note to the dish.
- Make sure to use quality tomatoes, preferably in season, as they have a much more intense flavor and unmistakable aroma.
Nutritional benefits:
Tomato stew is rich in vitamins and minerals. Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the body. Onions and parsley also add essential nutrients and contribute to a healthy immune system.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can this stew be made vegan? Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan, but make sure to use fresh vegetables and quality olive oil.
- Can I freeze the stew? Yes, tomato stew freezes very well. Let it cool completely, then place it in airtight containers, and you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
- What goes well with the stew? It pairs excellently with a fresh salad, a dry white wine, or even a glass of mineral water to balance the flavors.
Tomato stew is more than just a simple dish; it is a family story, a symbol of comfort and the joy of cooking. Whether you prepare it for a family meal or just for yourself, every bite will bring a smile to your face. So gather your ingredients and let's cook! Enjoy your meal!