Potato stew with smoked bacon
Smoked bacon potato stew is a comforting recipe, full of flavors and tradition, that brings a touch of warmth on chilly days. This stew is not just a hearty meal but also a true feast for the taste buds. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, each bite will remind you of the hearty meals from your childhood.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Necessary ingredients:
- 6 large potatoes, preferably yellow-skinned for a creamy texture
- 2 carrots, adding sweetness and color
- 1 medium onion, for a rich base flavor
- 1 green bell pepper, fresh, for a crunchy note
- 3-4 tablespoons of sunflower or olive oil
- 300 g smoked bacon, diced
- 70 g tomato paste, which will enhance the flavor
- 3-4 garlic cloves, finely chopped for an authentic taste
- A pinch of pepper or more, to taste
- 2 teaspoons of Delikat or 1 Knorr cube
- A few sprigs of fresh parsley, for garnish and freshness
- 1 liter of warm water
Preparation steps:
1. Prepare the vegetables: Start by peeling the onion, carrots, and potatoes. Chop the onion finely, slice the carrots into rounds, and cut the potatoes into large cubes, about 2-3 cm, to ensure even cooking. The green pepper will be diced, adding a note of freshness.
2. Infuse the flavors: In a large pot, heat the 4 tablespoons of oil. Add the chopped onion and let it sauté over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Add the carrots and bell pepper, continuing to stir for 5-6 minutes, until the vegetables release their aromas.
3. Add the bacon: Introduce the smoked bacon into the pot and let it fry together with the vegetables, stirring frequently, for about 10 minutes. This will provide a deep and savory flavor to the stew.
4. Potatoes and cooking: Add the diced potatoes, tomato paste, and enough warm water to cover the ingredients. Stir well to combine the flavors. Let it simmer on low heat, covering the pot with a lid. This will help to infuse the flavors.
5. Seasoning: After the potatoes have boiled for 20-25 minutes, check if they are tender. Add the chopped garlic, pepper, and Delikat (or Knorr cube). Stir and let it simmer for another 5 minutes to intensify the flavors.
6. Finishing: Before serving, add the freshly chopped parsley. This will provide a color contrast and add a touch of freshness to the stew.
Serving and suggestions:
This smoked bacon potato stew is perfect served alongside a fresh summer salad or pickles. A slice of fresh or homemade bread will perfectly complement the meal, helping you savor every drop of the delicious sauce.
Variations and tips:
You can experiment with different types of meat, such as sausages or ham, to give a personal touch to the recipe. Additionally, adding spices like smoked paprika or herbs such as thyme or rosemary will give a new dimension to the stew. If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and replace it with mushrooms or seasonal vegetables for a hearty dish.
Nutritional benefits:
This stew provides a good source of carbohydrates from potatoes, vitamins from vegetables, and protein from bacon. It is a comforting meal, ideal for bringing a touch of warmth on cold days, with a moderate caloric intake, depending on servings.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can the stew be frozen?
Yes, the stew can be frozen. Make sure to cool it completely before placing it in airtight containers.
2. Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! Adding zucchini, peas, or green beans can enrich the texture and flavor of the stew.
3. What drinks pair well?
A dry white wine or a pale beer will perfectly complement the rich flavors of the stew.
Enjoy this smoked bacon potato stew and let it take you back to the pleasant memories of family meals. It is a simple yet rich recipe that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Cook with love and inspiration!
Ingredients: 6 potatoes, 2 carrots, 1 onion, 1 green bell pepper, a few sprigs of parsley, 3-4 cloves of garlic, 70 g tomato paste, a pinch of pepper, 2 teaspoons of seasoning/1 cube of Knorr, smoked bacon, 3-4 tablespoons of oil
