Potato dish with olives

Potato stew with olives – A simple and delicious recipe

Sometimes, the simplest recipes are the ones that bring us the greatest satisfaction. Today, I invite you to discover a potato stew with olives, a dish that combines authentic flavors and accessible ingredients in a way that will delight both family and friends. This recipe is not only easy to make but also offers a plenitude of aromas that will warm your soul.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 500 g potatoes
- 1 carrot
- 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or orange)
- 1 onion
- 150 g olives (preferably pitted)
- 250 ml tomato puree
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish

A bit of history

Potato stew is a dish found in many culinary cultures, often considered comfort food, enjoyed within the family. This recipe has evolved over time, adapted according to available ingredients and local preferences. Olives, a common ingredient in Mediterranean kitchens, add a burst of flavor and a touch of elegance to this simple dish.

Step by step for a perfect stew

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

Start by washing the potatoes well under cold running water. Peel them and cut them into quarters. This shape will help the potatoes cook evenly and absorb the flavors from the sauce.

Peel and finely chop the onion. Slice the carrot into rounds and the bell pepper into cubes. This combination of vegetables will give the stew a unique flavor.

Step 2: Cooking the vegetables

In a pot or deep pan, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the carrot and bell pepper and continue sautéing the vegetables for another 5 minutes. This is the moment to let your senses enjoy the developing aroma.

Step 3: Adding the potatoes

After the vegetables have sautéed, add the quartered potatoes. Mix well to combine the flavors. Add 250 ml of water, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20 minutes. This technique will help the potatoes cook evenly and become tender.

Step 4: Finishing the dish

After 20 minutes, add the tomato puree, olives, salt, and pepper to taste. Gently stir and let the stew simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens and the potatoes are fully cooked. Check the sauce consistency periodically and adjust the cooking time according to your preferences.

Step 5: Serving

Once the stew is ready, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness and color. Serve the dish hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or even with a green salad for a pleasant contrast.

Practical tips

- Choosing ingredients: Use new potatoes for a finer texture or older potatoes for a more pronounced flavor. Green or black olives can be used based on preference.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or mushrooms, to diversify the recipe. Additionally, a tablespoon of herbs (oregano or basil) can add a unique taste.
- Pairings: This stew pairs perfectly with a glass of white wine or a fresh lemonade. Also, alongside a serving of rice or pasta, it becomes a complete main dish.

Calories and nutritional benefits

A serving of potato stew with olives (approximately 250 g) contains about 320 calories. Potatoes are an excellent source of carbohydrates, while olives provide essential antioxidants and healthy fats. Carrots offer vitamins A and C, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I prepare the stew in advance?
Absolutely! This stew is even tastier the next day when the flavors have had time to meld. You can keep it in the fridge and reheat it as needed.

- Can I adapt the recipe for vegans?
Yes! This recipe is already vegan, but make sure the olive oil used does not contain animal-derived ingredients.

- What should I do if I don’t have tomato puree?
You can use tomato juice or even plain water, but the tomato puree adds a rich flavor and intense aroma.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to put on your apron and start cooking! Enjoy your potato stew with olives, which promises to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your soul!