Name: Quick Vegetarian Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Ingredients: 2 medium parsnips, peeled and evenly sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 dried bay leaves; 1 heaping tablespoon tomato paste; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 350g button chestnut mushrooms (4½ cups), halved if large; 1 medium brown onion, chopped; 800 ml vegetable stock (3⅓ cups); 1 teaspoon vegan Worcestershire sauce or Henderson’s relish; 250g swede (1¾ cups), cut into chunks; 1/2 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced; 160 ml red wine (1 glass); 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (more to taste); 35g plain flour (1/3 cup); 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

If you’re on the lookout for a cozy, hearty meal that appeals to both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike, this Quick Vegetarian Stew is your answer. Bursting with the vibrant flavors of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, this dish provides comfort in a bowl that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Using a medley of seasonal vegetables and an infusion of rich, red wine, this stew becomes an instant favorite. The best part? It’s straightforward to prepare, making it ideal for those busy evenings when you need something satisfying but don’t have a ton of time.

This stew is about more than just flavor; it’s also packed with nutrition. Each bowl offers a delicious way to enjoy a variety of vegetables, providing essential vitamins and minerals that your body craves. Plus, with only one pot required, cleanup becomes a breeze—another win for busy weeknights! Whether you serve it with a side of crusty bread, or enjoy it on its own, this vegetarian stew is sure to make the dinner table a little cozier.

Why You’ll Love This Quick Vegetarian Stew

Flavorful and Hearty: The combination of vegetables, herbs, and red wine creates a rich flavor profile that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Easy and Quick: With simple cooking techniques and readily available ingredients, you can whip this up in no time!
Nutrient-Packed: This recipe incorporates a variety of vegetables, providing essential nutrients and fiber.
One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required thanks to the one-pot cooking method; perfect for busy evenings.
Adaptable Ingredients: You can easily modify this recipe based on what you have on hand or to suit your taste preferences!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before starting to prepare this delightful Quick Vegetarian Stew, ensure your kitchen is ready for a fun cooking session. First, gather all your ingredients and chop any vegetables as required; this helps streamline the cooking process. You’ll need a large pot or Dutch oven to cook your stew, along with a cutting board and knife for preparation. A wooden spoon or spatula will be useful for stirring the ingredients, and measuring cups and spoons will ensure proper portions of each ingredient.

Cleaning your workspace will also make the process smoother; make sure your sink is empty and all necessary utensils are easily accessible. Don’t forget to have serving bowls ready if you’re planning to impress guests or family with this comforting stew!

Ingredients

2 medium parsnips, peeled and evenly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 dried bay leaves
1 heaping tablespoon tomato paste
2 celery stalks, chopped
350g button chestnut mushrooms (4½ cups), halved if large
1 medium brown onion, chopped
800 ml vegetable stock (3⅓ cups)
1 teaspoon vegan Worcestershire sauce or Henderson’s relish
250g swede (1¾ cups), cut into chunks
1/2 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
160 ml red wine (1 glass)
1/2 teaspoon sea salt (more to taste)
35g plain flour (1/3 cup)
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base Veggies

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped brown onion and celery along with a pinch of salt to help draw out their moisture. Sauté these aromatic vegetables for about 10 minutes until they begin to soften and their natural flavors develop. This initial step builds a strong flavor base for your stew. Next, introduce the sliced carrots to the pot and continue cooking for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms

Once your base veggies are tender and fragrant, turn the heat to medium. Toss in the halved button chestnut mushrooms and allow them to cook for about 5 minutes. As they cook, they will release moisture that further enriches the stew. After the mushrooms have softened, add in the minced garlic, chopped fresh rosemary, and thyme leaves. Stir these aromatic herbs into the mixture and let them cook for 1 minute, creating a fragrant aroma that hints at the delicious flavors to come.

Step 3: Add Flavor Enhancers

Now it’s time to amp up the taste! Stir in the heaping tablespoon of tomato paste, soy sauce, and vegan Worcestershire sauce. This combination brings depth and richness to your stew. Cook this mixture for another minute to caramelize the flavors and enhance their profile.

Step 4: Thicken the Stew

To create a thick, hearty consistency, sprinkle in the plain flour and mix thoroughly to coat the vegetable mixture. Gradually pour in the red wine while mixing until smooth and uniformly incorporated. This step not only thickens the stew but also adds a complex background flavor with its richness.

Step 5: Add Root Vegetables and Stock

The next stage involves adding the parsnips and cubed swede to the pot. Pour in the vegetable stock, ensuring everything is submerged. Toss in the dried bay leaves, along with sea salt and black pepper. Stir everything together and then reduce the heat to low, allowing the stew to simmer uncovered for approximately 45-50 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking of all ingredients.

Step 6: Final Touches

Once simmered, taste your Quick Vegetarian Stew and adjust the seasoning if necessary, remembering that flavors deepen as they cook. Finally, remove the bay leaves before serving the stew hot in bowls. Enjoy the warming aroma and the delightful symphony of flavors!

Variations

Protein: Add lentils or chickpeas for an extra protein boost that complements the vegetables well.
Vegetables: Feel free to switch up the root vegetables based on what you have, such as adding potatoes or using different seasonal vegetables.
Spices: Incorporate spices like cumin or paprika to give the stew a unique twist and a different flavor profile.

Cooking Notes

For added depth, allow the stew to sit for a few hours or even overnight before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Make sure to taste as you go and adjust seasoning to your preference, ensuring a balanced flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread or warm rolls for dipping, enhancing the stewy goodness.
A dollop of sour cream or dairy-free alternative on top adds a creamy contrast if desired.

Tips

For a gluten-free version, substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
Make it in advance and freeze portions for quick weeknight dinners when you’re short on time!

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 210 per serving
Protein: 4 grams
Sodium: 350 mg

FAQs

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! You can sauté the base vegetables in a pan before adding them to the slow cooker alongside the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours for a delicious slow-cooked flavor.

How can I store leftovers?

Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Is this stew vegan?

Yes, this stew is entirely vegan! It uses plant-based ingredients and is delicious without sacrificing flavor.

Can I make this stew thicker?

If you prefer a thicker stew, consider adding more flour when incorporating the wine or use less vegetable stock to reduce its liquid content.

Conclusion

The Quick Vegetarian Stew is not just a recipe; it’s a hearty experience that brings warmth and flavor to your dinner table. With its adaptable ingredients, you can tailor this dish to your taste, ensuring that it suits your family’s preferences. Its simplicity in preparation makes it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights and the perfect way to enjoy a comforting meal without too much fuss. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this stew will establish itself as a favorite recipe that you’ll return to again and again. Don’t hesitate to try your own variations and share your successes in the comments below. Happy cooking!