Vegetable stew

Vegetable Stew - A Recipe Full of Color and Flavor

Cooking is an art, and vegetable stew is a delicious creation that brings together the colors and flavors of nature. This classic recipe, loved by all vegetable enthusiasts, is not only healthy but also offers an explosion of tastes that delight the taste buds. Whether you are an experienced chef or a beginner eager to explore, this vegetable stew will surely become a favorite recipe.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 1 cauliflower (about 56 florets)
- 6 small red potatoes
- 1 carrot
- 1 red onion
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 200 g yellow beans
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 3 bay leaves
- 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 200 ml tomato juice
- A pinch of sugar
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

The History of Vegetable Stew

Vegetable stew is a traditional recipe that has spread over time, being adapted by various cultures. It is believed to reflect the abundance of the season, showcasing fresh and nutritious vegetables. This simple and versatile recipe can be cooked in many different ways, depending on preferences and available ingredients.

Preparing the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, prepare all the ingredients. Clean the onion, garlic, and carrot, then trim the ends of the yellow beans. This is an essential step, as good organization will facilitate cooking and save you time.

1. Start by finely chopping the onion and garlic. These ingredients are the base of the flavors in your stew.

2. Cut the red potatoes into cubes of about 2 cm. They will add substance and texture to the dish.

3. Cut the carrot into rounds or cubes, depending on your preference.

4. Remove the seeds from the bell peppers and cut them into strips or cubes to blend perfectly with the vegetable mix.

5. Break the cauliflower into small florets for even cooking.

Cooking the Vegetable Stew

Now that you have prepared all the ingredients, it’s time to start cooking. This recipe doesn’t take much time, and the final result will be a fragrant vegetable stew, full of vitamins and minerals.

1. In a large pot, add a few tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. The oil will help caramelize the vegetables and add a delicious flavor.

2. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent.

3. Add the carrot and potatoes, then mix well. These vegetables need a little time to soften and blend perfectly with the flavors.

4. After about 5 minutes, add the bell peppers and cauliflower florets. Continue to stir.

5. Add the yellow beans, tomato juice, bay leaves, thyme, and sugar. The sugar will help balance the acidity of the tomatoes, providing a richer taste to the dish.

6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. It’s important to taste the dish while cooking to adjust the seasonings.

7. Cover the pot with a lid and let the stew simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step will help the vegetables soften and the flavors meld together.

8. Finally, remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs. Add the chopped parsley and mix well.

Serving Suggestions

The vegetable stew is delicious served warm, alongside a slice of fresh bread or a portion of polenta. You can top it with a spoonful of sour cream or yogurt for added creaminess. It also pairs perfectly with a crunchy green salad.

Possible Variations

This recipe is extremely versatile. You can add other seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, or spinach. You can also turn the stew into a heartier dish by adding proteins like chickpeas or lentils. An interesting idea would be to spice up the dish with a bit of chili or smoked paprika for a spicier flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

Vegetable stew is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it an excellent choice for a healthy lifestyle. Fresh vegetables contribute to strengthening the immune system, maintaining digestive health, and controlling weight. Each serving is a source of essential nutrients, and the dish is low in calories, making it ideal for a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?
Yes, frozen vegetables are a convenient alternative and can be successfully used, but the taste may vary slightly.

2. How can I store the vegetable stew?
The stew keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove.

3. Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, the vegetable stew is a 100% vegan recipe, perfect for those following a diet without animal products.

4. What drinks pair well with vegetable stew?
A dry white wine or fresh lemonade are excellent choices to complement this meal.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to start cooking! Indulge in this aromatic vegetable stew, full of color and health. Enjoy every bite and don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones!