Winter stew

Winter Stew: A Warm Embrace on a Plate

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

The history of winter stew is rich in flavor and tradition. This delicious dish has been cooked over the years in various corners of the world, appreciated for its versatility and abundance of ingredients. It is a recipe that brings together seasonal vegetables and can easily be adapted to each family's preferences. Winter stew is not only a healthy meal but also a perfect choice for chilly days when we want to warm our souls with comforting aromas.

Your ingredients for a delicious winter stew:

- 2 yellow onions
- 1 zucchini
- 1 courgette
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 tomato
- 1 eggplant
- 2 potatoes
- 500 ml tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- iodized salt, to taste
- freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil

Here’s how to prepare this delicacy step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the vegetables. Wash the onion, zucchini, courgette, bell peppers, tomato, eggplant, and potatoes well. Chop the onion into small cubes and the other vegetables into rough chunks. Don't worry about the exact size, as stew is a rustic dish where appearance is less important than taste.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. This step is essential for developing the base flavor of the stew. Then add the zucchini, courgette, bell peppers, and eggplant, stirring occasionally to ensure the vegetables brown evenly. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes.

3. Boiling the vegetables: Once the vegetables are sautéed, add the diced potatoes and chopped tomato. Pour 500 ml of water into the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 25 minutes. During this time, the vegetables will become tender, and the flavors will blend perfectly.

4. Thickening the sauce: At the end of the 25 minutes, add the tomato sauce and mix well. The cornstarch should be dissolved in a tablespoon of cold water before being added to the stew. This will help thicken the sauce, giving it a creamier texture. Let everything simmer for another 5 minutes until the sauce thickens. If you prefer a soupier stew, you can add a little more water.

5. Serving: The winter stew is served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or a portion of polenta. These accompaniments will not only enhance the flavor but will transform the meal into a delightful culinary experience.

Useful tips:
- You can add other vegetables according to your preferences or what you have on hand. Carrots, celery, or peas are just a few examples.
- If you want to give it a spicier note, add some chili flakes during the sautéing.
- Instead of cornstarch, you can use flour, but make sure to dissolve it well in cold water to avoid lumps.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, it’s an excellent alternative, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the recipe.
- How long does the stew last in the fridge? It can be stored in airtight containers for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove.

Nutritional benefits:
Winter stew is a nutrient-rich dish due to the variety of vegetables it contains. It is a source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, which aids digestion. Additionally, it is low in calories, making it an excellent option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Delicious pairings:
To turn this meal into a feast, you can accompany the stew with a fresh summer salad or a refreshing drink, such as fruit tea or natural juice. A dry white wine also pairs perfectly with the flavors of the vegetables.

In conclusion, winter stew is a simple yet extremely satisfying recipe that brings together a variety of vegetables and flavors, making it perfect for family meals. I invite you to prepare it and enjoy every bite!