Soy Cube Stew

Delicious Soy Cube Stew: A Quick and Tasty Recipe for Fasting Days

Total Preparation Time: 1 hour
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Number of Servings: 4

Who doesn't want a warm, nourishing meal full of flavors? This soy cube stew recipe is the perfect solution, offering a rich taste and satisfying texture, ideal for fasting days or for those looking to reduce meat consumption. Plus, it's easy to prepare and can be adapted based on the ingredients you have on hand. Let's get started!

A Bit of History

Soy dishes are popular in many cultures, appreciated not only for their taste but also for their nutritional benefits. Soy is an excellent source of plant-based protein, used in various dishes, from tofu to different cooked meals. This recipe combines tradition with innovation, providing a delicious and healthy alternative to meat dishes.

Ingredients

- 2 medium onions
- 2 carrots
- 6 medium potatoes
- 1 can of whole tomatoes (about 400g)
- 1/2 bag of soy cubes (50g)
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 cloves of garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons of oil (preferably olive or sunflower oil)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Water to cover the vegetables

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Soy Cubes: Start by placing the soy cubes in salted water with 2 cloves of garlic cut in half. Let them boil for 30 minutes from the moment the water starts boiling. This step will help rehydrate the soy and enhance its flavor.

2. Vegetables: While the soy is boiling, peel and slice the onion thinly (julienne) and the carrots into rounds. These vegetables will add a sweet taste and pleasant texture to your stew.

3. Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into small cubes. Make sure the sizes are uniform for even cooking.

4. Tomatoes: Place the canned tomatoes in a blender and puree them well to obtain a smooth sauce. This way, the dish will have a more pleasant consistency.

Cooking the Dish

5. In a heavy-bottomed pot, add the oil and sauté the onion and carrot over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning. The air will fill with the aroma of sautéed vegetables, and your dish will start to come to life!

6. Once the onion becomes translucent, add a cup of water to steam the vegetables. This step will allow the vegetables to cook slowly and release their flavors.

7. When the soy cubes are ready, drain them well and add them to the pot along with the potatoes, crushed garlic (the other 2 cloves), and bay leaves. Cover the vegetables with warm water so that they are completely submerged.

8. Season with salt and pepper to taste and let it boil for 15 minutes. This time will allow the potatoes to soften and absorb the flavors from the pot.

9. After 15 minutes, add the pureed tomatoes and let everything simmer on low heat for another 10 minutes. This step will intensify the sauce's flavor and make the dish richer.

10. Turn off the heat and add the chopped parsley, mixing well. This will add a fresh and vibrant note to your dish.

Tips and Useful Advice

- Thickening the Sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, you can add a little cornstarch dissolved in a tablespoon of cold water. Add the mixture during cooking and stir well.

- Adding Spices: You can experiment with other spices, such as paprika, cumin, or turmeric, to add a distinctive note to the dish.

- Vegetable Variations: You can replace carrots with peas, green beans, or zucchini, depending on your preferences or the season.

- Serving: This stew pairs wonderfully with a slice of fresh bread or a serving of boiled rice. You can also serve it with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on top for added flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

Soy cube stew is an excellent choice for a healthy lunch or dinner. Soy cubes are rich in protein, while the vegetables provide plenty of vitamins and minerals. This recipe is low in calories, having about 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil used. It is ideal for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of plant-based proteins?

Yes, you can replace soy cubes with tofu or seitan, but the cooking time may vary.

2. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, the stew can be frozen. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to prevent excessive freezing.

3. How can I make the recipe spicier?

If you like spicy food, you can add chili peppers or chili flakes during cooking.

4. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Absolutely! All ingredients are plant-based, and the recipe is perfect for vegans.

In conclusion, this soy cube stew is not only easy to prepare but also extremely tasty and nourishing. Try making it and let yourself be carried away by its savory flavors! It can easily become your favorite dish on fasting days or any day you want a healthy and quick meal. Enjoy your meal!