Quick Vegetarian Stew

If you’re looking for a comforting and hearty meal that’s quick to whip up, then this Quick Vegetarian Stew is just the ticket! It’s one of those recipes that never fails to warm my heart and fill my belly. Perfect for busy weeknights or even cozy family gatherings, this stew is packed with flavor and nutrition. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those veggies lingering in your fridge!

What I love most about this dish is how easy it is to prepare. With simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand, you can create a wholesome meal that everyone will rave about. So, let’s dive in and make something delicious together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This recipe comes together in just 70 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
• Family-friendly: Packed with veggies and flavors that appeal to all ages, it’s sure to please picky eaters.
• Great for meal prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—it reheats beautifully!
• Hearty and filling: The combination of vegetables and rich flavors makes this stew satisfying without any meat.
• Flexible ingredients: You can easily swap out veggies based on what you have at home, making it adaptable for everyone.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This Quick Vegetarian Stew is made with simple, wholesome components that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Base

• 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)

For Flavor

• 3/4 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1/2 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 2 garlic cloves, finely minced or pressed
• 1 heaping tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (use light soy sauce)
• 1 teaspoon Henderson’s relish or vegan Worcestershire sauce

For Thickening

• 35g plain flour (1/3 cup)
• 160 ml apple vinegar (1 glass; choose malbec)

For the Vegetables

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

For Cooking

• 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

Variations

One of the best things about this Quick Vegetarian Stew is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and adjust it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the veggies: Use whatever seasonal vegetables you have—zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans work wonderfully!
• Add some protein: Toss in some cooked lentils or chickpeas for an extra boost of protein.
• Spice it up: If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give it a kick!
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of coconut milk at the end for a richer texture.

How to Make Quick Vegetarian Stew

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté these until they’re softened—about 5-7 minutes. This step is important because cooking the vegetables slowly allows their natural sweetness to develop.

Step 2: Add the Mushrooms and Herbs

Next, toss in your mushrooms along with the fresh rosemary, thyme, and minced garlic. Cook everything together for another 5 minutes until fragrant. The mushrooms will release moisture which adds depth to our stew.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Stir in the tomato paste, soy sauce, and Henderson’s relish. Sprinkle over the flour and mix well so everything is coated. This will help thicken our stew later on. Cook for about 2 minutes until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Pour in Liquids

Now it’s time to add some liquid goodness! Gradually pour in the apple vinegar followed by the vegetable stock. Toss in those bay leaves too! Bring it all to a gentle simmer; this will help meld all those wonderful flavors together.

Step 5: Add Remaining Vegetables

Once simmering gently, add the parsnips and swede chunks. Season with salt and pepper before covering the pot. Allow it to cook for about 40-50 minutes until all vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks.

Step 6: Final Touches

When everything is cooked through, taste your stew. Adjust seasoning as needed—maybe add more salt or pepper! Remove bay leaves before serving. Your Quick Vegetarian Stew is ready to be enjoyed with crusty bread or over rice!

I hope you love making this dish as much as I do! It’s perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying during those quiet evenings at home. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Quick Vegetarian Stew

Creating a delicious vegetarian stew doesn’t have to be complicated! Here are some handy tips to help you make the most of this comforting dish.

• Prep Your Ingredients First: Take a few minutes to chop and measure out all your ingredients before you start cooking. This makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme add vibrant flavors that dried herbs can’t match. They will elevate the taste of your stew, making it aromatic and delicious.

• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Start with the recommended salt and pepper, then taste as you cook. Adjusting seasoning at the end can help you find that perfect balance of flavors.

• Cook Low and Slow: Allow your stew to simmer on low heat for longer if time permits. This helps deepen the flavors, making each bite rich and satisfying.

• Store Leftovers Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in airtight containers in the fridge or freezer. This way, you’ll have a quick meal ready for those busy days ahead!

How to Serve Quick Vegetarian Stew

Serving your quick vegetarian stew is just as important as making it! A little presentation can go a long way in making your meal feel special.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds brightness and a pop of color to your stew.
• Lemon zest: A touch of lemon zest just before serving can enhance the dish’s flavor profile with a refreshing citrus note.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping into the rich broth—perfect for soaking up all those delicious flavors!

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the stew beautifully, adding texture and freshness.

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables bring a caramelized sweetness that pairs well with the stew’s savory notes. Think carrots, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers!

• Rice or Couscous: Fluffy rice or couscous serves as an excellent base for scooping up stew. They provide a neutral flavor that balances out the richness of the dish.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to enjoy a delightful bowl of quick vegetarian stew that’s not only nourishing but also full of heart! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Quick Vegetarian Stew is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it in advance, ensuring you have a healthy, hearty meal ready to go on busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stew to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the stew into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe.

Can I make this Quick Vegetarian Stew ahead of time?

Absolutely! This stew is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day in advance and store it in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

What can I serve with Quick Vegetarian Stew?

This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad. You might also consider serving it over grains like quinoa or rice for a complete meal.

How long does Quick Vegetarian Stew last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this stew will last for about 4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I customize the vegetables in my Quick Vegetarian Stew?

Definitely! Feel free to swap out any vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Just keep similar cooking times in mind!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Quick Vegetarian Stew as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to your dinner table, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite veggies and spices—make it uniquely yours! Happy cooking!