6-8 HoursAmericanDairy-FreeDinnerEgg-FreeNut-FreePlant Based Whole 30Slow CookerVegan
June 14th, 2024
Prep Time 5 minutesminutes
Cook Time 7 hourshours
Think tender carrots, potatoes, and a medley of seasoned vegetables, lovingly simmering in a potful of flavorful broth with aromatic herbs. And the true beauty of it? You can prepare it in advance, tuck it into the freezer, and have a homemade meal whenever you please.
Fellow super parents and plant-based food-loving friends, you’re in for a treat! Introducing our Hearty Vegetable Stew, which is not only plant-based and Whole 30, it’s also a make-ahead freezer meal. In the midst of life’s crazy, this recipe is here to ensure you still enjoy a nourishing, homemade dinner without the hassle. Not only is this Hearty stew a convenient, easy prep, but it also tastes so delicious, it is almost too good to be true.
Think tender carrots, potatoes, and a medley of seasonal vegetables, lovingly simmering in a potful of flavorful broth with aromatic herbs. And the true beauty of it? You can prepare it in advance, tuck it into the freezer, and have a homemade meal whenever you please.
Let’s dive into this culinary adventure, and I’ll show you how a cozy bowl of Hearty Vegetable Stew doubles as your weeknight hero.
Why You’ll Love this Easy Hearty Vegetable Stew Recipe
No Hidden Ingredients: With you in the driver seat, you have full control over the ingredients which means ensuring no hidden additives or preservatives.
Family-Friendly: Who doesn’t love a good, hearty stew? Kids and adults alike will look forward to this simple-yet-satisfying dinner.
Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, our Hearty Vegetable Stew provides optimal nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
Easy Prep: With common pantry ingredients, this stew will make for a great empty the pantry meal
Think tender carrots, potatoes, and a medley of seasoned vegetables, lovingly simmering in a potful of flavorful broth with aromatic herbs. And the true beauty of it? You can prepare it in advance, tuck it into the freezer, and have a homemade meal whenever you please.
Tomatoes: For added flavor, swap the canned diced tomatoes for fire-roasted.
Potatoes: We absolutely love the flavor of sweet potatoes in this recipe, you can swap them for Yukon Gold, yellow, or red potatoes.
Additions:
More Vegetables: Stir in some peas or colored bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
Plant-Based Parmesan: What stew isn’t enhanced by some parm? Sprinkle homemade or store bought parmesan atop a boil of steaming stew, just be sure it is Whole 30-compliant.
How to Reheat and Store Hearty Vegetable Stew Plant Based Recipe
Best way to store Easy Whole 30 Plant Based Stew leftovers?
This recipe is best stored in the refrigerator. Make sure to allow the stew leftovers to cool before storing in an airtight container. Cooling the recipe before storing, reduces the amount of moisture in your containers, which ultimately changes the texture and flavor of the dish.
How long will Hearty Vegetable Stew Plant Based Whole 30 Recipe last in the fridge?
Generally, if stored properly and allowed to cool before storing, this leftover stew will remain fresh in the fridge for three to five days.
Can I freeze Make Ahead Vegetable Stew after cooking?
We recommend freezing before cooking and consuming leftovers in the recommended time frame. You’re able to freeze leftovers, but the second go will not be as delicious as the first nor will it have the same texture.
To prepare this as a raw freezer meal, simply label your gallon freezer bag according to your preferred labeling method, then add all ingredients, except day of cooking ingredients, into that labeled gallon bag. Then remove excess air, seal, and store for up to three months.
How to Reheat Delicious Hearty Vegetable Stew?
This is reheatable on the stovetop, in the oven, or in the microwave. We recommend using a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until your leftover stew is heated all the way through.
Make Ahead Hearty Vegetable Stew Plant Based Recipe FAQs
What are the must-have ingredients in a good plant-based stew?
In a good stew, you should start with nutrient-rich, aromatic vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions, which are a great base for flavor and texture. Fresh thyme, rosemary, and garlic further enhance flavor, and legumes – such as lentils or chickpeas – add protein and flavor. And don’t forget the stew staple: potatoes!
What should you not put in stew?
Avoid ingredients that wilt and don’t hold their texture well, such as delicate greens like spinach. Additionally, avoid processed foods and ingredients that contain artificial additives, since they don’t align with a Whole 30 stew.
What are two rules for stewing?
Two essential guidelines for stewing are: – Low and Slow: Stewing ingredients over low heat for an extended period of time allows flavors to fully develop and mingle beautifully. – Uniform Size: Cut the vegetables and meat into uniform, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
Can you simmer stew too long?
It is definitely possible to simmer soup for too long. Overcooking can result in mushy vegetables and overly tender meat. Be sure to follow the recommended cooking time to avoid this.
What type of potatoes are best in stew?
Our recipe uses sweet potatoes because we just love the flavor they bring. White potatoes are great, but sweet potatoes definitely offer more nutrition. If you love a good white potato in your stew, Yukon Gold or red are a great option.
What is the best way to thicken stew?
To thicken stew, mix equal parts tapioca flour and water or arrowroot powder and water into a paste. Then, add gradually to the simmering stew, stirring continuously until you achieve the desired thickness.
Why should you put vinegar or citrus in stew?
Adding vinegar or citrus brings a subtle acidity that brightens and balances the flavors in a stew. It enhances the overall flavor profile, making the stew more complex and appealing.
Is stock or broth better for stew?
Did you know that stock and broth differ? (Yes, even vegetable stock and broth). Stock often provides a richer, more intense flavor due to the extended cooking process. However, broth is a suitable alternative, especially if you prefer a lighter stew.
Do potatoes absorb salt in stew?
Potatoes do absorb salt in stew, which makes it essential to season the stew adequately. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed during the cooking process to ensure the perfect level of salt for the final dish.
As a full time working mom of four, I know how hard it is to find time (or energy) to cook. That’s why I’ve spent over a decade perfecting freezer meal recipes to make sure they’re not only quick to prepare but packed with flavors the whole family will love!
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