Hearty Vegetarian Stew
A comforting and nutrient-rich stew filled with fresh vegetables, beans, and herbs, perfect for cozy evenings.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil For that rich, flavorful base.
- 1 large Onion, diced A must-have for entrenching flavor into the stew.
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced Adds warmth and a depth of flavor.
Vegetables
- 2 large Carrots, chopped Sweetness and crunch for a delightful texture.
- 2 stalks Celery, chopped Brings a refreshing crunch to each bite.
- 1 each Bell Peppers, diced (1 red, 1 green) Bright colors and vibrant flavors.
- 1 medium Zucchini, chopped A lovely addition that soaks up flavors beautifully.
- 1 can (14 oz) Canned Tomatoes, diced The heart of the stew, adding warmth and depth.
Broth and Protein
- 4 cups Vegetable Broth To create that soul-soothing base.
- 1 can (15 oz) Cannellini Beans, drained and rinsed Adds protein and creaminess.
Herbs and Seasoning
- 2 each Bay Leaves A subtle fragrance that elevates the stew.
- 1 teaspoon Thyme, dried or fresh Perfect herbs to enhance the comforting flavors.
- 2 cups Spinach, fresh or frozen For a nutritional boost and lovely color.
- Salt and Pepper To taste, enhancing all those lovely flavors.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat the Olive Oil in a large pot over medium heat until it glistens.
- Sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook until aromatic.
- Stir in the carrots, celery, bell peppers, and zucchini, cooking until they start to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the canned tomatoes with their juices and stir well.
Cooking
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the cannellini beans, bay leaves, and thyme. Stir and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat, cover, and let simmer for about 30 minutes.
- Stir in the spinach until wilted, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
Feel free to swap out the zucchini for yellow squash or the cannellini beans for chickpeas for a variation. It's recommended to sauté thoroughly and chop vegetables consistently for best results.