Delve into the deep, rich flavors of this Hearty Vegan Stew, a perfect dish for those chilly days or when you simply crave something satisfying and plant-based. Featuring a robust blend of vegetables, herbs, and a splash of red wine, this stew is not only nourishing but also packed with flavors that develop beautifully as they simmer together.
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 cup yellow onion, roughly chopped
- 1 cup carrots, cut into 1/4 inch thick rounds (about 3 carrots)
- 1 cup celery, roughly chopped (about 2 large stalks)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces crimini mushrooms, cleaned and halved
- 6 ounces tomato paste
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 ½ tablespoons cornstarch (or 3 tablespoons flour)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- ½ cup red wine (Cabernet or another dry red is best)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 pound gold potatoes, cut into large chunks
- 3 cups vegetable stock
Instructions:
- Sauté the Base Vegetables:
- In a large pot, heat the olive or vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery, seasoning them with salt and black pepper. Sauté until the vegetables start to soften and the onions become translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Mushrooms and Aromatics:
- Stir in the crimini mushrooms and continue to cook until they begin to release their juices, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Thicken the Stew:
- Sprinkle the cornstarch over the vegetables, stirring to coat everything evenly. This will contribute to the stew’s thickening as it simmers.
- Deglaze and Simmer:
- Pour in the soy sauce and red wine, stirring to deglaze the pot and lift any bits stuck to the bottom. Add the tomato paste and mix well to combine.
- Add Remaining Ingredients:
- Add the bay leaves and potatoes. Pour in the vegetable stock, ensuring that the ingredients are well-covered. Heat the stew until it reaches a rolling boil, then lower the heat and let it gently simmer.
- Cook the Stew:
- Cover the pot and let the stew simmer gently for about 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Final Adjustments:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
- Serve:
- Ladle the stew into bowls, perhaps garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch of flavor.
Conclusion:
This Hearty Vegan Stew is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. It’s an ideal recipe for meal prep, as the stew tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had more time to develop. Serve this comforting stew on its own or alongside some crusty bread for dipping into the rich, savory broth. Enjoy a bowl of warmth that not only fills the stomach but also soothes the soul.