Quick Vegetarian Stew

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that’s super easy to whip up, then this Quick Vegetarian Stew is just what you need! It’s hearty, packed with flavor, and perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish has become a family favorite of mine because it brings everyone together—whether it’s a casual dinner or a gathering with friends. Plus, it’s versatile enough to make any night feel special.

Imagine coming home after a long day and having this warm stew simmering on the stove, filling your home with delightful aromas. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just over an hour, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, even picky eaters will enjoy this stew.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Whip up a batch ahead of time and reheat for an effortless meal throughout the week.
• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with veggies, this stew is not only delicious but also brimming with nutrients to keep you energized.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s dive into the ingredients! You’ll find that these simple, wholesome items are likely already in your kitchen or easy to find at your local store.

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 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 (light soy sauce)
• 1 teaspoon henderson’s relish or vegan worcestershire sauce

For Thickening and Stock

• 35g plain flour (1/3 cup)
• 160 ml apple vinegar (1 glass, choose malbec)
• 2 medium parsnips, peeled and uniformly sliced
• 250g swede (1 ¾ cups), peeled and chopped into chunks
• 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 how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative and use what you have on hand or mix in some of your favorite vegetables.

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale at the end for extra greens!
• Change Up the Beans: Add chickpeas or lentils for additional protein.
• Spice It Up: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Switch the Potatoes: Use sweet potatoes instead of swede for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Quick Vegetarian Stew

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, toss in the chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté these aromatic veggies until they soften up—this usually takes about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it builds a flavorful base for your stew!

Step 2: Add Mushrooms and Herbs

Stir in the button chestnut mushrooms along with fresh rosemary, thyme, and garlic. Cook this mixture until the mushrooms release their moisture and become tender; about 5-7 minutes is perfect. The flavors will start mingling beautifully at this point!

Step 3: Incorporate Tomato Paste and Seasonings

Next, stir in tomato paste followed by soy sauce and Henderson’s relish or vegan Worcestershire sauce. Mix well until everything is combined nicely. This adds depth to our stew while giving it that savory kick we all love!

Step 4: Thicken It Up

Sprinkle the plain flour over your mixture while stirring constantly. This will help thicken our stew as it cooks. Be sure to cook it for another minute so that raw flour taste disappears.

Step 5: Add Liquids and Remaining Veggies

Pour in apple vinegar followed by vegetable stock. Add parsnips, swede chunks, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together gently before bringing it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 45 minutes until all veggies are tender.

Step 6: Final Touches

After simmering away happily on your stove top, taste your stew one last time! Adjust seasoning if necessary—maybe add more salt or pepper according to your liking. Enjoy every comforting bite of this Quick Vegetarian Stew!

Pro Tips for Making Quick Vegetarian Stew

Creating a delicious vegetarian stew is easier than you think! Here are some handy tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Prep Your Ingredients Ahead: Chopping vegetables in advance can save time and make the cooking process smoother. This way, you can focus on enjoying the moment rather than rushing through the steps.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme elevate the flavor profile significantly compared to dried herbs. They add a vibrant taste that complements the earthiness of the mushrooms and root vegetables.

• Adjust Consistency: If your stew is too thick, add a splash more vegetable stock or water to reach your desired consistency. A well-balanced texture ensures every spoonful is delightful!

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add spices like paprika or cumin for an extra kick. These spices can enhance the overall flavor and make the stew uniquely yours.

• Let It Simmer: Allowing the stew to simmer for longer enhances its flavor as the ingredients meld together beautifully. Just be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking!

How to Serve Quick Vegetarian Stew

Serving your quick vegetarian stew can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to present this hearty dish in style.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs adds a pop of color and freshness, brightening up the rich flavors of the stew.
• Lemon zest: A hint of lemon zest sprinkled on top brings a refreshing contrast that lifts the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: Serve with a slice of warm crusty bread for dipping. The chewy texture pairs wonderfully with the stew, making each bite comforting and filling.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with diced veggies and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the stew while adding a nutritious crunch.
• Steamed green beans: Lightly steamed green beans provide a vibrant color contrast and crisp texture, balancing out the hearty stew.
• Rice or couscous: Fluffy rice or couscous makes an excellent base for the stew, allowing you to soak up all those delicious flavors.

With these serving suggestions, your quick vegetarian stew will not only be delicious but also visually appealing! Enjoy creating this comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Quick Vegetarian Stew is perfect for meal prep! It’s not only easy to make in bulk, but it also tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover stew in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure the stew has cooled down before sealing it in the container.

Freezing

• Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through.

FAQs

Have questions? Here are some common inquiries about Quick Vegetarian Stew!

Can I use other vegetables in this Quick Vegetarian Stew?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, or greens. Just keep an eye on cooking times as different vegetables may require varying durations.

How long does it take to make this Quick Vegetarian Stew?

The total time for this recipe is approximately 70 minutes, including both prep and cooking times. It’s a great option for a weeknight dinner!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Quick Vegetarian Stew is ideal for meal prepping. It stores well and can be made ahead of time, perfect for busy schedules.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Quick Vegetarian Stew as much as I do! It’s not just a healthy meal; it’s also a comforting dish that brings warmth during busy evenings. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients, and remember—cooking is all about enjoying the process. Happy cooking and bon appétit!