Vegetable stew

Vegetable Stew - A Delicacy Full of Flavors and Colors

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

Vegetable stew is a traditional dish, appreciated for centuries for its versatility and richness in nutrients. This dish is not only an opportunity to combine a variety of fresh vegetables but also a way to bring vibrant flavors and colors to the table. It is ideal for fasting days but can be enjoyed anytime, alongside a slice of fresh bread or as a side dish to a main course.

Ingredients:

- 300 g green beans
- 1 carrot
- 1 zucchini
- 2 potatoes
- 4-5 mushrooms
- 1 small celery
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 onion
- 1 bell pepper
- 4-5 broccoli florets
- 200 g frozen Mexican vegetable mix
- 4-5 tablespoons tomato juice
- salt, seasoning, pepper (to taste)
- fresh thyme for garnish
- chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil

Step by step for a perfect stew:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by washing the green beans well, then snap off the ends and cut them into smaller pieces (about 4-5 cm). Peel the potatoes, wash them, and cut them into small cubes. These will add texture and flavor to the stew.

2. Boil the vegetables: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. When the water is boiling, add the green beans, potatoes, and the Mexican vegetable mix (peas, corn, bell pepper, carrot). Let it boil for 10 minutes until the vegetables are slightly soft but still crunchy.

3. Prepare the remaining vegetables: Meanwhile, cut the carrot, celery, and bell pepper into thin sticks. Slice the onion and thinly slice the garlic and mushrooms. This mix will add a distinctive flavor to the stew.

4. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and add the onion, garlic, and mushrooms. Sauté them for 8-10 minutes, stirring constantly, until they become golden and fragrant.

5. Combine everything: Add the previously boiled vegetables to the skillet, along with half a cup of the water in which they boiled. Also add the tomato juice, then season with salt, seasoning, and pepper to taste.

6. Finish cooking: Let the stew simmer on low heat for 8-10 minutes, or until the liquid reduces slightly and the vegetables are well softened but not mushy. Finally, add the broccoli florets, previously boiled for 8 minutes in salted water, mixing everything gently.

7. Serving: You can serve the stew warm or cold, sprinkled with fresh thyme leaves and chopped fresh parsley. It is a dish that retains its flavors and taste the next day, so don’t hesitate to prepare it in larger quantities!

Practical tips:

- Choosing vegetables: Depending on the season, you can vary the ingredients. For example, adding zucchini or chili pepper can give the dish a unique touch.
- Storage: The stew keeps well in the fridge, in an airtight container, for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or in a skillet, adding a little water to maintain its juiciness.
- Nutritional benefits: This stew is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet. Green beans and broccoli are excellent sources of antioxidants, while potatoes and zucchini provide complex carbohydrates.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, the frozen vegetable mix is a convenient choice and can save time. Just make sure to thaw them before use.
- What can I use instead of tomato juice? If you don’t have tomato juice, you can use diluted tomato paste with water or even soy sauce for a different flavor.
- How can I enhance the taste? You can add spices like sweet or hot paprika, oregano, or even a few drops of chili sauce for a more intense flavor.

Serving suggestions:

The vegetable stew pairs wonderfully with a slice of fresh bread or a crispy green salad. You can also accompany this dish with a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade to balance the flavors.

Now that you have all the necessary information, you are ready to prepare a delicious vegetable stew! Each bite will be an explosion of flavors, and your effort will be rewarded with every meal. Happy cooking!