Quick Vegetarian Stew

If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty meal that’s easy to whip up after a long day, you’ve come to the right place! This Quick Vegetarian Stew is one of my all-time favorites. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something both delicious and nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a dish that brings everyone together, making it ideal for family gatherings or cozy dinners with friends.

What I love most about this stew is its versatility; it can be easily adapted based on what you have in your pantry. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe will make you feel like a kitchen pro while delivering warm, satisfying flavors that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time and simple steps, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Packed with veggies and rich flavors, this stew is sure to please picky eaters of all ages.
• Make Ahead: Perfect for meal prep! You can cook it in advance and reheat for an even tastier dinner later.
• Nutritious Comfort Food: Full of wholesome ingredients, this stew is not only delicious but also healthy!
• Customizable: Use whatever veggies you have on hand to create your own unique twist on this classic dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun! This Quick Vegetarian Stew uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium brown onion, coarsely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, coarsely chopped
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced (halve the slices if the carrots are large)
• 350g button chestnut mushrooms (4½ cups) (leave small ones whole and half larger ones)

For Flavoring

• 3/4 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1/2 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 2 garlic cloves, finely minced or pressed
• 1 heaping tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (use light soy sauce)
• 1 teaspoon henderson’s relish or vegan Worcestershire sauce

For Thickening & Bulk

• 35g plain flour (1/3 cup)
• 160 ml apple vinegar (1 glass)
• 2 medium parsnips, peeled and uniformly sliced
• 250g swede (1 ¾ cups), peeled and chopped into chunks

For Cooking

• 800 ml vegetable stock (3 ⅓ cups made with vegan bouillon)
• 2 dried bay leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (adjust as needed)
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Variations

One of the best things about this Quick Vegetarian Stew is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on your taste preferences or what’s in your fridge.

• Swap the veggies: Use seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a new twist.
• Add some beans: Toss in a can of chickpeas or kidney beans for extra protein.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced chili for a kick!
• Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs such as parsley or basil to suit your flavor profile.

How to Make Quick Vegetarian Stew

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery. Sauté them until they become soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes. This step is crucial because it builds the base flavor of your stew!

Step 2: Add the Veggies

Next, stir in the carrots and mushrooms. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften. The mushrooms will release their moisture, adding depth to our stew.

Step 3: Season It Right

Now it’s time to sprinkle in the rosemary and thyme along with minced garlic. Stir everything together for about a minute until fragrant. This step enhances all those beautiful flavors!

Step 4: Incorporate Tomato Paste & Flour

Mix in the tomato paste followed by the flour. This helps thicken our stew while adding richness. Cook for another 2 minutes—don’t worry if things look a little thick!

Step 5: Pour in Liquids

Gradually pour in the apple vinegar and vegetable stock while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add soy sauce and Henderson’s relish here too!

Step 6: Simmer Away

Toss in your parsnips, swede chunks, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle boil then reduce heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 45 minutes until all veggies are tender and flavors meld beautifully.

Step 7: Final Touches

Once cooked through, taste your Quick Vegetarian Stew and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove bay leaves before serving—it’s time to dig in!

And there you have it! A warm bowl of Quick Vegetarian Stew that not only nourishes but also lifts spirits during any season!

Pro Tips for Making Quick Vegetarian Stew

Making a hearty stew doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some tips to help you create the best Quick Vegetarian Stew:

• Prep your ingredients in advance: Chopping veggies and measuring out spices ahead of time can save you valuable minutes during cooking, making the process smooth and stress-free.

• Use fresh herbs for flavor: Fresh rosemary and thyme can elevate your stew, bringing vibrant flavors that dried herbs simply can’t match. They also add a lovely aroma to your kitchen!

• Adjust seasoning as needed: Taste your stew as it simmers! Adding more salt, pepper, or even a splash more vinegar can enhance the overall flavor profile perfectly to your liking.

• Incorporate seasonal vegetables: Don’t hesitate to substitute or add whatever veggies you have on hand. Seasonal ingredients not only contribute unique flavors but also make your dish more nutritious.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your stew to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in a richer taste experience.

How to Serve Quick Vegetarian Stew

Serving this delicious vegetarian stew is just as important as preparing it! A thoughtful presentation can make all the difference at the dinner table.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Crusty bread: Serve with slices of warm baguette or rustic bread for dipping, creating a comforting dining experience.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and lemon dressing provides a refreshing contrast and extra protein.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread pairs wonderfully with the stew, perfect for soaking up every last drop of that flavorful broth.
• Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans add a beautiful color and crunch, complementing the soft textures of the stew.
• Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes deliver a crispy texture that balances well with the hearty stew.

Enjoy making your Quick Vegetarian Stew, and feel free to get creative with how you serve it! Whether it’s a cozy weeknight meal or part of a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Quick Vegetarian Stew is a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy hearty, nutritious meals throughout the week without any hassle. It stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stew to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Let the stew cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of vegetable stock or water if needed.
• Alternatively, microwave in a covered bowl, stirring occasionally until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I make this Quick Vegetarian Stew ahead of time?

Absolutely! This stew is perfect for making ahead. You can store leftovers in the fridge or freeze portions for later.

What can I serve with Quick Vegetarian Stew?

This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or quinoa. Feel free to add a fresh green salad on the side for a complete meal!

Can I customize the vegetables in my Quick Vegetarian Stew?

Definitely! Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Just keep similar cooking times in mind.

How long does Quick Vegetarian Stew last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it will last for 3-4 days in the fridge.

Is this stew suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Quick Vegetarian Stew is great for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy nourishing meals all week long.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Quick Vegetarian Stew brings warmth and comfort to your dining table! It’s not just a recipe but a way to create beautiful moments with loved ones over delicious food. Enjoy making it, and feel free to share your experiences—I would love to hear how yours turns out!