Delicious Winter Squash Stew

This delightful winter squash stew is a comforting dish perfect for the colder months. With a mix of vibrant vegetables and flavorful sauces, it's both hearty and wholesome. The classic combination of juicy zucchini, crunchy bell peppers, and sweet onions provides a pleasant texture. Enhance the flavors with rich tomato paste and a tangy vinegar finish. This stew is versatile and can be served as a main dish or a side. It's perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests. The recipe is straightforward and allows for substitutions to cater to different tastes. You can make this dish in under an hour, making it an ideal option for a quick wholesome meal. Enjoy the warmth and flavors this stew brings to your dining table.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 2 kg zucchini
• 4 bell peppers
• 7 onions
• 350 g tomato paste
• 1 liter water
• 1 cup oil

Spices:

• 1 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1/2 cup vinegar

Preparation Time

Total Time: 55 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Vegetables: Begin by washing all the vegetables thoroughly. Peel the zucchini and cut it into small cubes. Dice the bell peppers into even-sized pieces. Lastly, chop the onions into your preferred size, whether cubes or slices.

2. Combine Liquids and Seasonings: In a large pot, pour in the water, vinegar, and oil. Mix in the salt and sugar, stirring until they're fully dissolved. Add the tomato paste to the pot and blend it well with the liquids.

3. Start Cooking the Stew: Bring the pot to a gentle boil over medium heat to allow the flavors to meld.

4. Add the Zucchini: Once the liquid starts boiling, add the zucchini cubes. Stir them into the mixture, ensuring they are well coated with the sauce. Let them cook for about 15 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly.

5. Include the Bell Peppers: After the zucchini has cooked, add the diced bell peppers. Stir them through the stew and continue cooking for an additional 10 minutes.

6. Finish with Onions: Add the chopped onions to the pot, ensuring they are incorporated evenly. Allow the entire stew to simmer for another 20 minutes, giving the flavors time to develop fully.

7. Check the Consistency: After the cooking time is up, check the consistency of the stew. The vegetables should be tender, and the sauce should be slightly thickened.

8. Preserve the Stew: Once cooked, carefully transfer the stew into sterilized jars while it's still hot. Seal them tightly with lids to preserve the freshness.

9. Cool and Store: Let the jars cool at room temperature before storing them in a cool, dark place. This stew can last for several months when stored properly.

Tips

• Substitutions: You can replace sugar with honey for a natural sweetness.
• Consistency: Add a bit of cornstarch dissolved in water for a thicker sauce.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like carrots or potatoes for added variety.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approx. 250 per serving
• Proteins: 4g
• Fats: 12g
• Carbs: 30g

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add some chili flakes for a hint of heat.
• Herbal Touch: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside crusty bread or over a bed of rice.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness.

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