Embrace the comfort of home-cooked meals with our Meatball Veggie Medley, where each ingredient brings its own unique flavor and texture to the table. This recipe combines juicy, spice-infused meatballs with a bounty of fresh garden vegetables, all simmered together in a savory stew that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights or leisurely weekend dinners, offering a hearty and wholesome meal that the whole family can enjoy. The blend of herbs and spices, along with the richness of the tomato paste, creates a robust flavor that complements the natural tastes of the vegetables, making every spoonful a delightful experience.
Full Recipe:
- Ingredients:
- 800-900 grams minced meat (your choice)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Your choice of spices (cumin, oregano, thyme)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 20 grams butter, for cooking
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 2 medium potatoes, cubed
- 1/2 bell pepper, diced
- 1 ripe tomato, chopped
- 300-400 grams green beans, ends trimmed
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Herbs of Provence or mixed dried herbs
- Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the minced meat with salt, pepper, garlic, paprika, and spices. Add half the chopped onion, parsley, egg, and flour. Mix well and shape into meatballs.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs until browned on all sides, then set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté remaining onion and carrot until soft.
- Add potatoes, bell pepper, tomato, and green beans, cooking until they start to soften.
- Return meatballs to the skillet.
- Add tomato paste and Herbs of Provence. Add water if needed, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until meatballs are cooked and vegetables are tender.
- Adjust seasoning as needed and garnish with parsley to serve.
- Prep Time:Â 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 650 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Spotlight
- Minced Meat: The foundation of our meatballs, you can choose from beef, pork, or even a mix for deeper flavor. The minced meat is seasoned with classic spices and herbs to create rich, savory bites.
- Fresh Vegetables: This stew packs a punch with carrots, potatoes, bell peppers, tomatoes, and green beans. Each vegetable adds its texture and flavor, enhancing the overall dish with bites of sweetness, earthiness, and freshness.
- Herbs of Provence: A classic French blend of herbs including thyme, basil, marjoram, parsley, and rosemary, which gives the stew a fragrant aroma and a warm flavor that ties the rustic elements together beautifully.
Cooking Tips
- Browning the Meatballs: Searing the meatballs before simmering is crucial as it locks in the flavors and gives them a delightful texture.
- Simmering: Slow cooking the stew allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Make sure to simmer it covered so the vegetables and meatballs cook evenly and the broth remains rich and full-bodied.
- Customization: Feel free to throw in other vegetables like zucchini, squash, or mushrooms depending on what’s in season or available in your pantry.
Nutritional Benefits
This meal is not just about taste but also about providing a balanced diet. The meatballs offer a good source of protein, while the variety of vegetables ensures you’re getting plenty of vitamins and minerals. The olive oil used for sautéing is rich in healthy fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this stew hot from the stove, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or parmesan for an extra touch of flavor. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread to sop up the delicious sauce or a side of creamy mashed potatoes or polenta for a more filling meal.
Why This Recipe Works
The Rustic Meatball Garden Stew is a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together to create a filling and flavorful dish. It’s easy enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for a gathering with friends. The recipe is flexible, allowing for variations in meat choices and vegetable additions, making it a perfect dish to adapt to personal tastes or dietary requirements.
Conclusion
Rustic Meatball Garden Stew is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings the warmth of a family kitchen to every table. It’s a perfect recipe for those looking to infuse their cooking with simplicity, flavor, and nutrition. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, this stew promises to deliver satisfaction and comfort with every spoonful.