Vegetarian Stew
This is a classic hearty vegetarian stew perfect for those cold weather days . It is thick and filling and is full of good healthy starches and vegetables. This stew goes great with warm homemade sourdough bread. This recipe can be made on the stove top or in a Instant Pot.
Serves 4 - 6
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
1 1/2 large yellow or white onions, chopped into 3/4-inch pieces (about 3 cups)
3 medium carrots, sliced lengthwise and cut into 3/4-inch pieces (about 2 1/4 cups)
3 ribs celery, cut into 3/4-inch pieces (about 1 cup)
2 medium portabella mushrooms, cut into 3/4-inch pieces (about 4 cups)
1 1/2 tablespoon finely chopped garlic (about 6 medium cloves)
5 cups water
2 pounds white potatoes, peeled and cut into 3/4-inch chunks (about 6 cups)
1/3 cup tomato paste (half of a 6-ounce can)
1 tablespoon dried Italian herb seasoning
1 tablespoon paprika
2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh rosemary
1 1/2 cups cooked peas (if frozen, rinse under warm water)
1/2cup fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
Heat 1 tablespoon of water in a soup pot over medium-high heat. When the water starts to sputter, add the onions, carrots, and celery, and cook, stirring frequently, for about 8 minutes, adding water as needed.
Stir in the mushrooms and garlic, and continue to cook while stirring for 5 minutes more, adding water as needed.
Add the 5 cups of water, potatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, and paprika, and bring to a boil, uncovered. Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the rosemary. Cover and cook for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until the carrots and potatoes are very tender.
Add the peas and cook for 5 minutes more.
Place 2 cups of the stew (broth and vegetables) into a blender, and blend just briefly. Stir the mixture back into the pot to thicken the stew. Stir in the parsley.
Make it your own
Add rutabagas (peeled & cubed)
if using dry herbs, use less.
Substitute vegetable broth for water