Our Hearty Homestyle Meatball Stew combines the comforting textures and robust flavors of meticulously seasoned meatballs with the fresh, vibrant tastes of garden vegetables, all simmered to perfection. It’s a dish that speaks to the soul with each spoonful, perfect for gathering the family around the dinner table on any given night.
This Rustic Garden Meatball Medley isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. With each bite, you’re taken to a place of warmth and satisfaction. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook, this recipe promises ease of preparation and guarantees to impress with its depth of flavor and hearty composition. It’s ideal for those evenings when only something deeply satisfying will do.
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 your chosen spices. Add half the chopped onion and parsley, egg, and flour. Mix thoroughly and shape into meatballs.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs until browned on all sides, then remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the remaining onion and carrot until soft. Add potatoes, bell pepper, tomato, and green beans. Cook until they begin to soften.
- Return the meatballs to the skillet. Stir in tomato paste and Herbs of Provence. If the mixture seems dry, add a little water. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Adjust seasoning as needed and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes | Kcal: 650 kcal | Servings: 4
What Makes This Recipe Special?
This recipe offers a unique twist on the traditional meatball stew by incorporating a medley of vegetables and a blend of spices that elevate the dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Each ingredient has been chosen to complement the others, creating a symphony of flavors that’s both balanced and bursting with taste.
Ingredients Breakdown
- Minced Meat: You can choose any type of ground meat—beef, pork, turkey, or chicken—based on your dietary preferences. Each brings its unique flavor and texture to the stew.
- Fresh Vegetables: The combination of carrots, potatoes, bell peppers, tomatoes, and green beans adds a splash of color and an array of nutrients. These vegetables not only contribute to the stew’s hearty nature but also enhance its nutritional value.
- Herbs and Spices: A thoughtful mix of garlic, paprika, and Herbs of Provence (or mixed dried herbs) gives this stew a fragrant and inviting aroma, while a hint of heat from the black pepper adds depth to every bite.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Preparation: Begin by mixing the minced meat with herbs, spices, and binding agents like eggs and flour. This ensures your meatballs are flavorful and hold together well during cooking.
- Browning the Meatballs: Cooking the meatballs until they’re golden brown on all sides not only enhances their texture but also locks in the flavors.
- Sautéing the Vegetables: This step builds the base of the stew’s flavor. Sautéing onions and carrots, followed by the addition of other vegetables, ensures they absorb the meaty flavors while contributing their sweetness.
- Simmering to Perfection: Returning the meatballs to the pan and simmering them with the rest of the ingredients allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. The slow cooking process helps tenderize the meatballs and vegetables, making every bite a delight.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this rich and robust stew with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette makes an excellent accompaniment, balancing the heartiness of the stew.
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop overnight. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stove over low heat to preserve the texture of the meatballs and vegetables. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Our Hearty Homestyle Meatball Stew is more than just food—it’s a nourishing, soul-satisfying meal that promises comfort in every bite. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner, a casual get-together with friends, or any time you need a little extra warmth. Dive into this stew and enjoy a meal that feels like a hug from the inside out.