Family Style Vegetable Stew

Per SERVING (makes 4-6)

INGREDIENTS

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or any cooking oil)

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

• 1 sweet potato, peeled and diced (optional)

• 1 zucchini, chopped

• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces

• 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)

• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

• 4 cups vegetable broth (or water with bouillon)

• 1 cup frozen or fresh peas

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth of flavor)

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)

• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary)

• 1 bay leaf

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for richness)

• 1 cup chopped kale or spinach (optional, for greens)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

1. Sauté the aromatics:

   • Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

   • Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.

   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

2. Add the vegetables:

   • Stir in the carrots, celery, potatoes, sweet potato, zucchini, green beans, and bell pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Season and simmer:

   • Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

   • If using tomato paste, mix it in for added richness.

   • Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

4. Add final touches:

   • Stir in the peas and kale or spinach (if using). Cook for another 5 minutes until the greens are wilted and the peas are heated through.

   • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

5. Serve:

   • Remove the bay leaf and discard.

   • Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

   • Serve with crusty bread, rice, or on its own.

INSTRUCTIONS

TIPS

• For extra protein, add cooked lentils, chickpeas, or white beans.

• Add a splash of coconut milk or cream for a creamy twist.

• Spice it up with a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper.

Enjoy your warm and comforting vegetable stew! 🥕🍲