Simple potato stew

Simple Potato Stew: A Comforting Recipe for the Soul and Stomach

Potato stew is a classic dish that evokes thoughts of family meals, the aroma of home-cooked food made with love, and the warmth of home. This simple recipe is perfect for days when we want to enjoy a tasty and nourishing dish without too much hassle. With accessible ingredients and an easy cooking technique, you'll achieve a delicious result. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6 servings

Essential ingredients for the stew:
- 1 kg of potatoes
- 1 medium onion
- 1 carrot (optional, but recommended for added flavor)
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for a pleasing visual impact)
- 2 tablespoons of oil (preferably olive oil or sunflower oil)
- 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable seasoning (or salt, to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1/2 bunch of fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1/2 bunch of fresh lovage (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 2-3 tablespoons of tomato paste (or tomato puree)
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch (optional, to thicken the stew)
- Water, enough to cover the ingredients

Cooking the dish: essential steps

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the potatoes. Wash them well under cold running water, then cut them into cubes of about 2-3 cm. This will ensure even cooking. Chop the onion finely, and if you've chosen to use the carrot, grate it. Dice the bell pepper, making sure to remove the seeds.

2. Boiling the potatoes: In a large pot, add the cut potatoes, enough water to cover them, and 2 tablespoons of oil. Add the vegetable seasoning, thyme, and a pinch of salt. Place the pot over medium heat and bring to a boil. Cover with a lid and let it boil for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft but not falling apart.

3. Preparing the vegetables: In a separate pan, heat a tablespoon of oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, then add the grated carrot and diced bell pepper. Sauté together for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly and release their flavors.

4. Combining the ingredients: Once the potatoes are boiled, add the sautéed vegetable mixture to the pot. Gently stir to combine everything, then add the tomato paste and, if desired, the cornstarch dissolved in a little water to thicken the stew. Let it cook over medium heat for 5-10 minutes until everything is well incorporated and the flavors meld.

5. Finishing the dish: Finally, add the chopped dill and lovage. Stir and let it simmer for another minute, then turn off the heat.

6. Serving: The potato stew is served hot, with a slice of fresh bread, perhaps with a dollop of sour cream on top for added creaminess. It is a perfect meal for a family dinner or a comforting dish on a chilly day.

Useful tips for a perfect result:
- Choosing the potatoes: Use new or waxy potatoes, which have a lower starch content and hold their shape better during cooking.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as peas, green beans, or even zucchini, depending on your preferences.
- Spices: Experiment with other spices, such as paprika or garlic for added flavor.
- Serving: Try serving the potato stew with a fresh green salad or pickles, which will add a pleasant contrast.

Nutrition and calories:
Potato stew is a healthy dish, rich in complex carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Each serving contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of oil and added ingredients. It is an excellent choice for a hearty yet balanced meal.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other vegetables? Absolutely! Add your favorite vegetables to customize the recipe.
2. How can I make the dish spicier? Add a little chili pepper or black pepper to taste.
3. Does it keep well? The stew keeps in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and the flavor improves the next day.

Potato stew is more than just a recipe; it's a childhood memory, a warm hug in a bowl. I hope you enjoy every bite and share it with your loved ones! Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: 1kg of potatoes - 1 onion - 1 carrot (if you don't have it, skip it) - 1 bell pepper - vegetable seasoning - thyme - dill, lovage - oil - water - broth - optional corn starch to better bind the food, about two tablespoons dissolved in water.