When the weather cools down and you crave something cozy and nourishing, there’s nothing better than a bowl of hearty vegetable stew. Bursting with vibrant, fresh veggies, this recipe offers a warm embrace with every spoonful. To elevate the experience, homemade crispy croutons seasoned with aromatic garlic and Italian herbs add the perfect crunch. This dish not only satisfies your hunger but also brings a sense of comfort, making it the ultimate meal for any occasion. Plus, it’s easy to make and packed with wholesome goodness!
Ingredients:
For the Vegetable Stew:
- 1 large red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 sticks of celery, chopped
- 2 small carrots, diced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1.2 liters (6 cups) water
- 1 liter (5 cups) vegetable broth
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 zucchini, diced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 300 ml (1 cup) heavy cream
For the Crispy Herb Croutons:
- 3 slices of day-old bread, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- A pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon dried garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix (oregano, basil, thyme)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetable Stew:
- Start by warming olive oil in a large pot on medium heat.
- Once hot, add the chopped red onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Toss in the celery, carrots, and diced potatoes (both regular and sweet), stirring occasionally for another 5-6 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
- Pour in the water and vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Add the broccoli florets and diced zucchini. Cover the pot and allow the stew to simmer for 20 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.
- Once the vegetables are fully cooked, season the stew with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in the cream, letting the stew simmer for an additional 5 minutes to thicken slightly and develop a rich flavor.
2. Make the Crispy Herb Croutons:
- While the stew is simmering, preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Drizzle with olive oil, ensuring the cubes are evenly coated. Sprinkle the garlic powder, Italian herbs, and a pinch of salt over the bread.
- Toss the bread cubes gently to distribute the seasoning.
- Bake the croutons in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
3. Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the warm vegetable stew into bowls, ensuring a generous helping of the rich broth and tender veggies.
- Top with a handful of the crispy herb croutons just before serving for that delightful crunch.
- Enjoy your comforting bowl of garden-fresh stew with crispy croutons as a meal that warms both your heart and soul!
Conclusion:
This comforting garden vegetable stew, paired with crispy homemade croutons, is a dish that captures the essence of wholesome, feel-good cooking. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or a hearty dinner, it offers a perfect balance of flavor and texture. The tender vegetables, rich broth, and crunchy croutons come together in a harmony of tastes that will have you coming back for more. It’s simple to prepare, brimming with nutrients, and guaranteed to satisfy both body and soul.