Description
This hearty vegan stew is packed with a colorful medley of fresh vegetables, chickpeas, and aromatic herbs, simmered to perfection in a savory tomato and vegetable broth base. It’s a comforting, nutritious, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner, offering warmth and a satisfying texture with every spoonful.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 large bell pepper, chopped
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup spinach leaves
Canned & Broth
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
Herbs & Spices
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Oils & Extras
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Onion: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until it becomes translucent and fragrant, forming the stew’s flavorful base.
- Add Garlic and Vegetables: Add the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and begin to release their aromas.
- Add Main Ingredients: Stir in the chopped bell pepper, diced potatoes, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, and the drained chickpeas. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
- Simmer and Season: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer. Add the green beans, dried thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to infuse the stew with depth of flavor.
- Cook the Stew: Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for about 30 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender, and the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Finish with Greens and Lemon: Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and lemon juice, allowing the spinach to wilt slightly, adding a bright freshness to the stew.
- Adjust Seasoning: Remove the pot from heat. Taste the stew and adjust salt and pepper as needed to balance the flavors perfectly.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the stew hot, garnished generously with freshly chopped parsley to add a final touch of color and flavor.
Notes
- This vegan stew is highly customizable; feel free to add or substitute your favorite seasonal vegetables.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red chili flakes along with the smoked paprika.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 4 days and reheat beautifully on the stove or microwave.
- You can thicken the stew by mashing some of the potatoes or chickpeas before serving for a creamier texture.
- Serve with crusty bread or over cooked grains like quinoa or rice for a more filling meal.
