Ingredients

• 9 oz / 250g cabbage (chopped)
• 1 carrot (sliced)
• 1 bell pepper (chopped, any color)
• 2 medium tomatoes (chopped)
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
• 5 oz / 150g potatoes (diced)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried garlic powder
• Juice of 1/2 lime
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tsp mustard
• 1 tsp dried or fresh parsley (chopped)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly.
2. Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, peel and slice the carrot, chop the bell pepper, dice the potatoes, and chop the onion.
3. Mince the garlic and chop the tomatoes.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In a large pot or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, and sauté until they turn translucent and fragrant (about 3–4 minutes).
3. Add the chopped carrots, bell pepper, and diced potatoes. Stir well and let them cook for another 5 minutes to begin softening.

Step 3: Add the Cabbage and Seasoning

1. Add the chopped cabbage to the pot and stir everything together.
2. Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried garlic powder.
3. Stir the vegetables well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Liquid

1. Add the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste to the pot, stirring to combine.
2. Pour in 1/2 cup of water and stir well to deglaze the pot, ensuring nothing sticks to the bottom.
3. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the stew simmer for about 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors meld together.

Step 5: Add Lime Juice, Mustard, and Parsley

1. Once the vegetables are fully cooked, add the lime juice and mustard to the pot. Stir to incorporate.
2. Sprinkle the parsley over the stew and stir again.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Ladle the hearty vegetable stew into bowls and garnish with additional parsley if desired.
2. Serve hot with crusty bread, rice, or enjoy it on its own.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

(Estimated based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Protein: 3 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugars: 6 g
• Fat: 4 g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Vitamin A: 40% Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin C: 60% DV
• Iron: 8% DV
• Calcium: 4% DV

FAQs

1. Can I use other vegetables in this stew?
Yes! This recipe is very versatile, so feel free to add vegetables you have on hand, like zucchini, spinach, or green beans. Adding leafy greens or even mushrooms can add texture and depth.

2. Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Absolutely! This stew tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to develop. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

3. What can I serve with this stew?
This stew is excellent on its own but pairs well with a side of rice, quinoa, or bread. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on top for extra creaminess if desired.

Tips for Making the Best Hearty Vegetable Stew

1. Add a Variety of Herbs and Spices
Feel free to customize this stew with other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves to create more complexity in flavor. A pinch of chili flakes can add a nice kick if you enjoy some heat.

2. Use Fresh Lime Juice
The acidity from the lime juice brightens up the flavors and balances the sweetness of the vegetables. Fresh lime juice is recommended for the best taste, but lemon juice can work in a pinch.

3. Don’t Overcook the Vegetables
For a perfect stew, ensure you don’t overcook the vegetables. Simmer them just until tender to retain a bit of texture, especially for ingredients like carrots and potatoes.

4. Stir the Pot Frequently
To prevent the vegetables from sticking to the bottom of the pot, stir frequently, especially if you’re not using a non-stick pan. Adding a little extra water if it begins to dry out will help avoid burning.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: This stew can be stored in the fridge for up to 4–5 days. Ensure it’s in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warm.

Freezing: If you plan to freeze the stew, let it cool completely and then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When reheating, add a bit of water or vegetable broth if the stew has thickened too much, and reheat it on low heat to prevent overcooking the vegetables.

Conclusion

This Hearty Vegetable Stew is a delicious and nutritious meal that is sure to become a favorite. With a comforting blend of fresh vegetables, warming spices, and a touch of acidity from the lime juice, it’s a dish that hits all the right notes. Not only is it incredibly easy to prepare, but it’s also customizable to your taste and dietary preferences. Try experimenting with different vegetables, spices, or even adding beans for extra protein. The recipe provides a delightful way to enjoy a nutritious, satisfying meal that’s perfect for the whole family. Enjoy your stew, and happy cooking!