Cozy Winter Peas and Potato Stew Recipe
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There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty stew to make you feel cozy on a chilly winter day. This Peas and Potato Stew is the perfect dish for those moments when you want something simple yet satisfying for lunch or dinner. Packed with wholesome ingredients like unpeeled potatoes, carrots, peas, and canned tomatoes, this stew is not only nourishing but also full of flavor. The smoky aroma of paprika combined with the freshness of parsley creates a dish that feels both comforting and vibrant.
Whether you’re snuggling up on the couch with a bowl in hand or serving it as the centerpiece of a family meal, this stew is guaranteed to please. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and incredibly easy to make. Plus, it’s made with pantry staples and fresh produce, making it a budget-friendly option for anyone who loves good food without the fuss.
In this blog post, we’ll explore why this recipe deserves a spot in your winter meal rotation, share tips to make it perfect, and provide storage suggestions so you can enjoy leftovers. Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Why You Will Love This Peas and Potato Recipe
- Comforting and Hearty: This stew is the epitome of comfort food. The combination of tender potatoes, sweet carrots, and peas in a smoky tomato-based sauce is deeply satisfying.
- Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants from the vegetables, this stew is as nourishing as it is delicious.
- Simple Ingredients: No fancy or hard-to-find ingredients here. You’ll likely have most of these items in your pantry or freezer already.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable staples like potatoes, carrots, and peas, this recipe is perfect for feeding the whole family without breaking the bank.
- Vegan and Gluten-Free: Whether you’re vegan or just looking for a plant-based meal option, this stew checks all the boxes.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This stew tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal recipe for meal prepping.
Ingredient Notes
- Potatoes: Keep the skins on for extra nutrients and a rustic texture. Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes for the best results.
- Carrots: Large chunks of carrot add sweetness and a nice bite to the stew.
- Frozen Peas: These are convenient and bring a burst of color and natural sweetness.
- Canned Tomatoes: Use crushed or diced tomatoes for a rich base. Fire-roasted tomatoes add extra depth if you have them.
- Onion and Garlic: Essential aromatics for building flavor.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables.
- Smoked Paprika: The star seasoning that gives this stew its smoky, savory taste.
- Salt and Pepper: Adjust to taste for perfect seasoning.
- Fresh Parsley: Brightens up the dish and adds a fresh finish.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Cut Vegetables Uniformly: To ensure even cooking, cut the potatoes and carrots into similar-sized pieces.
- Sauté for Flavor: Don’t rush the sautéing step. Allow the onions to caramelize slightly for a deeper flavor.
- Use Quality Smoked Paprika: A good-quality smoked paprika can elevate the dish, adding a rich, smoky undertone.
- Adjust the Consistency: If the stew is too thick, add a splash of water or vegetable broth. If it’s too thin, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste the stew before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Add Greens: For an extra nutritional boost, stir in a handful of fresh spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Vegan Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This Peas and Potato Stew is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the meal by pairing it with:
- Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve the stew over a bed of rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the stew.
- Pickles: A side of pickled vegetables adds a delightful contrast to the stew’s warmth.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day.
- Freezing: This stew freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of water if the stew has thickened too much.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh peas work perfectly in this recipe. Just add them towards the end of the cooking time to prevent overcooking.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to customize the stew with your favorite vegetables. Zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans would be great additions.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
You can substitute regular paprika, though you’ll miss the smoky flavor. For a similar effect, add a pinch of liquid smoke or chipotle powder.
Is this stew spicy?
No, the stew is not spicy. However, you can add a pinch of chili flakes if you prefer a bit of heat.
Equipment Needed
- Large Pot: A sturdy pot with a lid is essential for simmering the stew.
- Wooden Spoon: For stirring the ingredients without scratching your pot.
- Knife and Cutting Board: To chop the vegetables efficiently.
- Ladle: For serving the stew.
This Peas and Potato Stew is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The comforting flavors, hearty ingredients, and ease of preparation make it a must-try recipe for anyone looking to enjoy a cozy winter dish. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, this stew is sure to bring warmth and joy to your table.
Have you tried this recipe? I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you make any tweaks or add your own twist? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below. Let’s keep the conversation delicious!
Peas and Potato Stew
This Peas and Potato Stew is a hearty and flavorful vegan dish perfect for chilly days. Made with wholesome ingredients like unpeeled potatoes, carrots, peas, and smoked paprika, it\u2019s an easy and comforting meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, well washed and unpeeled, cut into large chunks
- 2 cups frozen peas
- 1 cup canned tomatoes, crushed or diced
- 2 carrots, cut into large pieces
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Water (enough to cover the vegetables)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Toss in the carrots, potato chunks, and frozen peas. Stir well to combine.
- Sprinkle the smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the vegetables. Stir for about 1 minute to coat everything evenly. Add the canned tomatoes and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in enough water to cover the vegetables by about 1 inch. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are fork-tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.
- Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- Take your time sauteing the onions and garlic to build a rich flavor base.
- Cut the potatoes and carrots into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning towards the end for the perfect balance of flavors.
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