Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchinis
• 1 large onion
• 2 large tomatoes
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 60 ml (½ tea glass) olive oil or cooking oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon tomato paste
• 100 ml (½ glass) water

Making it Step by Step

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Zucchinis: Wash and cut the zucchinis into half-moon slices or chunks, depending on your preference.
   • Onion: Peel and finely chop the onion.
   • Tomatoes: Wash and dice the tomatoes.
   • Garlic: Peel and mince the garlic cloves.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
   • Heat 60 ml of olive oil (or cooking oil) in a large pot over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Cook the Zucchinis:
   • Add the sliced zucchinis to the pot and stir well to coat them with the oil, onion, and garlic mixture.
   • Cook the zucchinis for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
4. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:
   • Stir in the diced tomatoes and add 1 teaspoon of tomato paste. Mix thoroughly to combine.
   • Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of sugar. The sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
   • Pour in 100 ml of water to create a bit of liquid for the stew.
5. Simmer:
   • Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally and check for doneness.
   • The zucchinis should be tender and the tomatoes should have broken down into a rich, flavorful sauce.
6. Adjust Seasonings:
   • Taste the stew and adjust the salt or sugar if needed. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can cook it uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.
7. Serve:
   • Once the stew is cooked to your liking, serve it hot. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or as a side dish to your favorite protein.

Cooking Tips

• Zucchini Size: Cut the zucchinis into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Tomato Paste: Adding tomato paste enhances the richness of the tomato flavor.
• Consistency: For a thicker stew, let it simmer uncovered. For a lighter consistency, keep it covered.
• Flavor Boost: Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley at the end can add a burst of freshness.

Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: This stew can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 150 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 10g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fiber: 3g

FAQs

1. Can I use other vegetables in this stew?
   • Yes, you can add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
2. What if I don’t have fresh tomatoes?
   • You can use canned tomatoes or tomato sauce as a substitute. Reduce the amount of added water to account for the liquid in canned tomatoes.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   • Yes, this stew can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. The flavors may even improve after sitting for a day.
4. How can I make this stew spicier?
   • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili peppers to increase the heat.
5. Can I use a different type of oil?
   • Yes, you can use other oils such as canola or vegetable oil if you prefer. Olive oil adds a distinctive flavor but other oils work as well.

Conclusion

This Savory Zucchini and Tomato Stew is a delightful and simple dish that brings together the freshness of zucchini and the robust flavors of tomatoes and garlic. With its easy preparation and comforting taste, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as part of a larger meal. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome vegetarian option or a flavorful side, this stew is sure to satisfy and impress. Enjoy the delicious simplicity of homemade cooking with this easy and nourishing recipe!