Potato stew

Potato stew is a beloved recipe for many, a true comfort food that combines simplicity with delicious flavors. This hearty dish has been prepared for generations and is often associated with family meals, where each bite brings pleasant memories. Let's discover together how to prepare this potato stew in our style, step by step, with useful tips and tricks!

Total preparation time: 50 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 kg of potatoes (preferably starchy potatoes)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 large carrot
- 1/2 bell pepper (can be red, yellow, or green)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 black peppercorns
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil

Preparing the potato stew

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by peeling the vegetables. The potatoes, onion, carrot, and bell pepper should be washed well. Cut the onion, carrot, and bell pepper into small cubes for even cooking, and the potatoes into larger cubes, about 2-3 cm, to maintain their texture. A suggestion: if you choose potatoes of different colors, your stew will have a vibrant and appetizing hue!

2. Sautéing the vegetables:
In a large skillet or pot, add the two tablespoons of oil and heat over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the carrot and bell pepper. Continue to sauté the vegetables for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors.

3. Adding the potatoes:
After the vegetables have sautéed, add the potato cubes. Mix well and let them sauté together for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step will intensify the flavors and provide a delicious base for the stew.

4. Boiling:
Add enough cold water to cover all the ingredients. Once the water starts to boil, add the tomato paste, bay leaves, and peppercorns. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pot with a lid and let the stew simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender but not falling apart.

5. Finishing:
When the stew reaches the desired consistency, remove the pot from the heat. Add the chopped fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness and flavor. Mix well and let the stew sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Chef's tip:
For an even more intense flavor, you can add a teaspoon of sweet paprika or hot pepper during the sautéing of the vegetables. Also, feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as peas or green beans, to add a note of freshness and variety.

Serving:
Serve the potato stew hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. This recipe pairs perfectly with yogurt or sour cream on top for a creamy contrast.

Variations:
If you want to turn this classic recipe into one with a twist, you can add some cubes of meat (beef or pork) during the sautéing of the vegetables. This will add flavor and extra protein, transforming the stew into a hearty main dish.

Nutritional benefits:
Potato stew is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy. The vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals, while parsley is rich in antioxidants. This recipe is also low in calories, with approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil and tomato paste used.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use sweet potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can add a touch of sweetness and an interesting flavor to the stew.
- Can I make the stew vegetarian?
Absolutely! If you omit the meat and use vegetable broth, you'll get a delicious vegetarian stew.
- Can the stew be frozen?
Yes, potato stew can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing it in airtight containers.

Potato stew is more than just a recipe; it is a family story, a tradition that brings us together around the table. Prepare it with love and enjoy every bite!