Hearty Vegetable and Bean Stew: A Comforting Bowl of Goodness

Introduction

When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty stew to comfort the soul. This Hearty Vegetable and Bean Stew is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s a perfect way to use up seasonal vegetables and is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this stew is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into pieces
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add the Root Vegetables: Add the carrots and celery to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they start to soften.
3. Incorporate the Rest: Add the bell pepper, zucchini, and green beans. Stir to combine and cook for another 5 minutes.
4. Simmer the Stew: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), kidney beans, black beans, and vegetable broth. Stir in the dried thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.
5. Season and Serve: Remove the bay leaf, season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

This Hearty Vegetable and Bean Stew is perfect for meal prep or as a cozy dinner for the family. It’s rich in flavor and nutrition, making it a satisfying choice for any day of the week. Pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal, and enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings!

Feel free to get creative by adding your favorite vegetables or spices—this recipe is as flexible as it is delicious!