Quick Vegetarian Stew

Finding a satisfying, meat-free dinner option that keeps everyone happy can feel like an uphill battle. Luckily, this Quick Vegetarian Stew checks all the boxes for a wholesome meal. It’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy nights in. Packed with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, this stew is not only comforting but also incredibly flavorful. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious stew ready in no time.
• Hearty and Filling: This stew is loaded with nutritious vegetables, making it a satisfying dish for everyone.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of herbs and spices brings out rich flavors that will delight your taste buds.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it alongside crusty bread for a complete dinner experience.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smoother, gather the following essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering the stew evenly and ensuring all ingredients cook thoroughly.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables easier and safer.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.

Ingredients

Vegetables and Aromatics

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium brown onion, coarsely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, coarsely chopped
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced (halve the slices if the carrots are large)
• 350g button chestnut mushrooms (4½ cups) (leave small ones whole and half larger ones)
• 3/4 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1/2 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 2 garlic cloves, finely minced or pressed

Sauces and Seasonings

• 1 heaping tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (used light soy sauce)
• 1 teaspoon henderson’s relish or vegan worcestershire sauce
• 35g plain flour (1/3 cup)
• 160 ml red apple vinegar (1 glass, chose malbec)

Additional Vegetables

• 2 medium parsnips, peeled and uniformly sliced
• 250g swede (1 ¾ cups), peeled and chopped into chunks

Broth

• 800 ml vegetable stock (3 ⅓ cups, made with vegan bouillon)
• 2 dried bay leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (adjust as needed)
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

How to Make Quick Vegetarian Stew

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the coarsely chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté until softened, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 2: Add Mushrooms and Herbs

Stir in the button mushrooms along with the fresh rosemary and thyme. Continue cooking until the mushrooms release their moisture.

Step 3: Build Flavor

Add minced garlic to the pot. Stir in tomato paste, soy sauce, and henderson’s relish. Cook for another minute to allow flavors to meld.

Step 4: Thicken the Stew

Sprinkle flour over the mixture while stirring to combine well. This will help thicken your stew as it cooks.

Step 5: Incorporate Liquids

Gradually pour in the red apple vinegar followed by vegetable stock. Add bay leaves, sea salt, and black pepper for seasoning.

Step 6: Add Remaining Vegetables

Mix in parsnips and swede chunks. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to low. Cover and let simmer for about 45 minutes until veggies are tender.

Enjoy your hearty Quick Vegetarian Stew, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Quick Vegetarian Stew

Serving a Quick Vegetarian Stew can be as creative as you want. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal and satisfy everyone’s taste buds.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – Serve warm slices of crusty baguette for dipping into the stew.
• Garlic Bread – A buttered garlic bread adds a flavorful twist that complements the stew perfectly.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Fluffy White Rice – Spoon the stew over steamed white rice for a comforting, filling dish.
• Nutty Quinoa – Try it with quinoa for a protein-packed option that enhances the dish’s texture.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens up the flavors and adds freshness.
• Thyme Leaves – Add some extra thyme leaves for an aromatic touch that pairs beautifully with the stew.

With a Side Salad

• Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette balances the hearty stew and adds freshness.
• Caesar Salad – For something more substantial, serve it alongside a classic Caesar salad.

How to Perfect Quick Vegetarian Stew

To ensure your Quick Vegetarian Stew turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Opt for fresh vegetables to enhance flavor and texture.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Cook Slowly – Allowing the stew to simmer longer can deepen flavors; don’t rush it!
• Experiment with Vegetables – Feel free to mix in seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers.
• Add Heat if Desired – For those who like spice, consider adding red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Let It Rest – Allowing the stew to sit before serving lets flavors meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Quick Vegetarian Stew

Pairing side dishes with your Quick Vegetarian Stew can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a delightful side.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy Brussels sprouts provide a tasty crunch that contrasts well with the stew.
3. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins add warmth and comfort to your meal.
4. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli is nutritious and adds vibrant color to your plate.
5. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the savory stew flavors.
6. Grilled Asparagus – Tender grilled asparagus brings elegance and complements the dish’s heartiness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Quick Vegetarian Stew can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Ignoring ingredient preparation: Failing to chop vegetables uniformly can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure all pieces are similar in size.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Keep an eye on them and follow the cooking times closely.
• Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning can make your stew bland. Taste as you cook and adjust the seasoning gradually.
• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the aromatics first builds flavor. Don’t rush this process; take time to develop those flavors.
• Using stale spices: Old spices lose potency, affecting flavor. Always check your spice freshness before use.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to keep it fresh and prevent odors.

Freezing Quick Vegetarian Stew

• Duration: Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Containers: Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion.

Reheating Quick Vegetarian Stew

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through, which should take about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to prepare Quick Vegetarian Stew?

Preparation takes about 15 minutes. The total cooking time is around 55 minutes, making it a great weeknight meal.

What can I serve with Quick Vegetarian Stew?

You can pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

Can I customize my Quick Vegetarian Stew?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or legumes for added protein and nutrition.

Is this Quick Vegetarian Stew suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This stew stores well and is perfect for meal prepping. It makes great leftovers!

What are some variations of Quick Vegetarian Stew?

Consider adding lentils or beans for extra protein. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

This Quick Vegetarian Stew is not only hearty and delicious but also versatile enough to cater to different tastes. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices. Give it a try, and enjoy a comforting dinner that everyone will love!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Quick Vegetarian Stew

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 4 people 1x

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Description

Discover the perfect weeknight meal with our Quick Vegetarian Stew. This hearty and flavorful dish is packed with a medley of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, making it a comforting option for family dinners or cozy nights in. In just 15 minutes of prep time, you can create a satisfying stew that’s not only delicious but also versatile enough to cater to various dietary preferences. Whether served on its own or alongside crusty bread, this easy vegetarian stew will quickly become a favorite in your household.

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Ingredients

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• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium brown onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 medium carrots, sliced
• 350g button chestnut mushrooms
• 2 medium parsnips, sliced
• 250g swede, chopped
• 800 ml vegetable stock
• Fresh rosemary and thyme
• Tomato paste and soy sauce

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, celery, and carrots until softened (5-7 minutes).
2. Add mushrooms, rosemary, and thyme; cook until mushrooms release moisture.
3. Stir in minced garlic, tomato paste, soy sauce; cook for another minute.
4. Sprinkle flour over the mixture; stir to combine.
5. Gradually add red apple vinegar and vegetable stock along with bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
6. Mix in parsnips and swede; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes until tender.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Vegetarian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 9g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 0mg