Hearty Potato Stew

This Hearty Potato Stew is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. Packed with nutritious ingredients like yellow potatoes, chickpeas, carrots, and mushrooms in a rich tomato base, this vegan stew is both filling and flavorful. It’s gluten-free and ready in just an hour, making it an ideal choice for busy lifestyles without compromising on taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 55 minutes, you can have this delicious stew on the table in no time.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vegetables and legumes, this dish offers a healthy dose of fiber and protein.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a standalone meal or paired with crusty bread for a heartier option.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of herbs and fire-roasted tomatoes adds depth and richness to every spoonful.
• Family-Friendly: Its comforting flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your Hearty Potato Stew.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Can opener

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Ideal for cooking stews as it allows for even heat distribution and ample space to combine all ingredients.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables safe and efficient.
• Cutting board: Protects your countertops while providing a stable surface for cutting.
• Measuring spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for consistent flavor each time you make the stew.

Ingredients

This hearty vegetarian potato stew features yellow potatoes, chickpeas, carrots, and mushrooms in a rich tomato base. It’s casual enough for weeknight family dinners and special enough for a dinner party. This vegan stew is gluten-free and ready in an hour!

For the Stew Base

• 1 tablespoon oil (see Notes for oil-free)
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 10 ounces mushrooms, cut into thick/chunky slices
• 5 cloves garlic
• 1 ½ teaspoons dried Italian herb blend (or a combination of thyme, rosemary, oregano)

For the Vegetables

• 2 medium carrots, peeled and cut into coins or half moons
• 1 ½ pounds yellow potatoes, cut into large bite-size pieces (or other variety)

For the Liquid Components

• 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes (preferably fire-roasted)
• 3 ½ cups vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon tamari (for GF) or soy sauce

Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt (or more to taste)
• black pepper, to taste

For Protein Boost

• 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained (or white beans)

How to Make Hearty Potato Stew

Step 1: Preheat the Pot

Preheat a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the oil if using. Once hot, add the onion and mushrooms.

Step 2: Sauté the Base

Cook for about 8 minutes or until the moisture from the mushrooms is mostly evaporated.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Add the garlic, dried herbs, and carrots. Stirring frequently, cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the crushed tomatoes, potatoes, broth, bay leaf, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a simmer.

Step 5: Simmer

Cover the pot and reduce heat to low. Periodically check on it as it simmers for about 20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 6: Add Chickpeas

Stir in the chickpeas. Cook uncovered for a few more minutes until the stew has reduced slightly.

Step 7: Final Touches

Turn off the heat and remove the bay leaf. Taste for seasoning; remember that flavors will deepen as it rests. Enjoy your hearty potato stew!

How to Serve Hearty Potato Stew

Hearty Potato Stew is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or having a simple family meal, here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your stew experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – A warm, crusty baguette pairs perfectly for soaking up the rich broth.
• Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread adds flavor and makes for a delightful accompaniment.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Fluffy Rice – Serving the stew over fluffy rice adds a comforting element and helps absorb the delicious flavors.
• Quinoa – This protein-packed grain offers a nutty flavor that complements the stew beautifully.

Topped with Greens

• Fresh Spinach – Adding fresh spinach on top of the hot stew wilts it slightly, giving a nutritious boost.
• Chopped Parsley – A sprinkle of parsley enhances presentation and adds freshness.

As Part of a Platter

• Mixed Vegetable Platter – Serve with raw or roasted vegetables for a colorful, healthy side.
• Cheese Board – Pairing the stew with a cheese board can add richness and variety to your meal.

How to Perfect Hearty Potato Stew

Perfecting your Hearty Potato Stew is all about enhancing flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your stew turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs significantly improve the taste of your stew.
• Adjust Seasonings – Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as it cooks for optimal flavor.
• Let It Rest – Allowing the stew to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together beautifully.
• Batch Cooking – Making a large batch allows you to freeze leftovers for quick meals later on.
• Experiment with Spices – Adding spices like paprika or cumin can give your stew an exciting twist.

Best Side Dishes for Hearty Potato Stew

Pairing side dishes with Hearty Potato Stew can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delightful options to consider:

1. Simple Green Salad – A light salad with mixed greens provides freshness and balances the hearty stew.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies enhance flavors and add color to your plate.
3. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins offer a comforting touch and complement savory dishes well.
4. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrition and vibrant color alongside your stew.
5. Mashed Cauliflower – A creamy mashed cauliflower can serve as a low-carb alternative while still being indulgent.
6. Stuffed Peppers – Filling bell peppers with grains or beans makes for an exciting side dish that’s both filling and nutritious.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Hearty Potato Stew, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the sauté step: Failing to sauté the onions and mushrooms properly can lead to a bland stew. Always take the time to cook these ingredients until they release their moisture and develop flavor.
• Using cold broth: Adding cold broth to your pot can slow down the cooking process. Make sure to warm your vegetable broth first for a smooth simmer.
• Overcooking the potatoes: If you let the potatoes cook too long, they might become mushy. Check for fork tenderness around the 20-minute mark to ensure they maintain their shape.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasoning at the end can result in an unbalanced flavor. Always taste your stew before serving and add more salt or pepper as needed.
• Ignoring resting time: Serving immediately after cooking can miss out on flavor development. Letting the stew rest allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Hearty Potato Stew

• Allow the stew to cool completely before freezing.
• Store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.

Reheating Hearty Potato Stew

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 20 minutes, covered with foil.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Hearty Potato Stew.

Can I make Hearty Potato Stew ahead of time?

Yes, this stew tastes even better when made ahead of time! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

What can I substitute for chickpeas?

If you’re not a fan of chickpeas, you can use white beans or lentils as an alternative. They both add great texture and protein.

Is Hearty Potato Stew gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just ensure you use tamari instead of soy sauce if you need it gluten-free.

How do I customize my Hearty Potato Stew?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor!

Final Thoughts

This Hearty Potato Stew is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, you can easily customize it with different veggies or spices. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how hearty and satisfying it is!

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Hearty Potato Stew

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Hearty Potato Stew is a comforting and nutritious dish perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. This vegan stew is brimming with wholesome ingredients such as yellow potatoes, chickpeas, carrots, and mushrooms, all simmered in a rich tomato base. Not only is it gluten-free and ready in just one hour, but it’s also packed with fiber and protein to keep you satisfied. The delightful combination of herbs and fire-roasted tomatoes elevates this stew, making every spoonful a flavorful experience that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Serve it on its own or pair it with fresh bread or grains for an even heartier meal.

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

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• 1 tablespoon oil (see Notes for oil-free)
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 10 ounces mushrooms, cut into thick/chunky slices
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ teaspoons dried Italian herb blend (or a combination of thyme, rosemary, oregano)
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and cut into coins or half moons
• 1 ½ pounds yellow potatoes, cut into large bite-size pieces
• 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes (preferably fire-roasted)
• 3 ½ cups vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon tamari (for GF) or soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt (or more to taste)
• black pepper, to taste
• 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained (or white beans)

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Instructions

1. Preheat a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the oil if using.
2. Sauté chopped onion and mushrooms for about 8 minutes until moisture evaporates.
3. Stir in minced garlic and diced carrots; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, potatoes, vegetable broth, bay leaf, soy sauce, salt, and pepper; bring to a simmer.
5. Cover and reduce heat; simmer for about 20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
6. Stir in rinsed chickpeas; cook uncovered for a few more minutes until slightly reduced.
7. Remove bay leaf and adjust seasoning before serving.

• Author: Diary
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 560mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 9g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 0mg