Zucchini Pepper Stew Recipe

This delightful zucchini pepper stew recipe offers a wonderful medley of flavors and textures, perfect for a savory treat. It's a vibrant dish rich in veggies, harmoniously blended with aromatic spices and a touch of sweetness. This dish creates a tasty experience that'll leave you wanting more, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner. The stew's thick, hearty texture makes it a satisfying meal on its own or a versatile complement to your favorite sides. The infusion of sweet and tangy flavors balances beautifully with the freshness of the vegetables. The use of basic pantry ingredients makes this dish accessible and easy to create. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, you'll find this recipe both straightforward and rewarding. Its colorful presentation also makes it an appealing dish for parties or potlucks. The recipe is adaptable for different preferences, allowing you to customize according to your dietary needs or taste preferences.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 2 kg zucchini
• 5 bell peppers
• 10 small onions

Spices and Sauces:

• 1 cup sugar (optional to reduce)
• 100 g vinegar or 2 tbsp essence
• 2 tbsp salt
• 150 g oil
• 350 g tomato paste (optional to reduce)
• 1 liter water

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 180 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Gather Your Ingredients: Begin by gathering all necessary ingredients and ensuring they are easily accessible.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: Dice the zucchini into small chunks and place them in a large pot with water.
3. Initial Boil: Boil the zucchini pieces in water for about 20 minutes until they start to soften.
4. Add Bell Peppers: Chop the bell peppers into similar-sized chunks and add them to the pot. Continue to boil for an additional 10 minutes.
5. Incorporate Onions: Chop the onions into small cubes and add them to the pot. Let the mixture cook for another 3 minutes.
6. Flavor the Stew: Stir in the sugar, vinegar, oil, and tomato paste, blending all ingredients thoroughly.
7. Combine and Cook: Mix everything well, ensuring all vegetables are coated with the sauce, and let it simmer for a few more minutes.
8. Finalize Cooking: Allow the stew to cook until it reaches the desired thickness, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
9. Jar the Stew: Once cooked, carefully ladle the hot stew into sterilized jars for storage.
10. Seal for Freshness: Seal the jars tightly to preserve the flavors for later enjoyment.
11. Cool and Store: Allow the jars to cool and store them in a cool, dark place.
12. Serving: When ready to serve, heat the stew and enjoy it as a main dish or side.
13. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.
14. Use as Meal Preps: Perfect for meal prep, this stew can be stored in the fridge for quick meals during the week.
15. Avoid Overcooking: Be mindful not to overcook the vegetables to maintain a delightful texture.
16. Portion Control: Use the stew in appropriate portions to manage dietary intake.
17. Offer Substitutes: Feel free to swap any vegetables based on availability or preference.
18. Balance Flavor: Adjust sweetness and sourness by tweaking sugar and vinegar ratios.
19. Event Serving: Ideal for gatherings, offering both hearty and nutritional satisfaction.
20. Finish and Enjoy: Sit back and relish your flavorful creation, perhaps with some crusty bread on the side.

Tips

• For a lower calorie version, reduce the sugar and oil.
• Try using fresh herbs like basil or thyme for extra flavor.
• Consider adding a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 350
• Protein: 5g
• Fats: 12g
• Carbs: 55g

Variations

• For a vegan twist, use olive oil.
• Include chickpeas for added protein.
• Experiment with different types of squash or root vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crusty bread or rice for a fuller meal.
• Top with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for a creamy texture.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for a burst of color.

Best Places

• Le Marais - A cozy bistro known for its warm and inviting atmosphere. Location: 10 Rue des Francs Bourgeois, Paris, France.
• The Savory Spoon - Offering a menu rich in vegetable-based dishes. Location: 101 Main St, Portland, USA.
• Vegetable Oasis - Renowned for its fresh and organic ingredients. Location: 22 King St, Sydney, Australia.
• Taste of Green - Specializes in healthy and delicious vegetarian meals. Location: 155 Queen St, Toronto, Canada.
• Garden Bites - A paradise for veggie lovers. Location: 50 Market Square, London, UK.
• Eden Café - Famous for its diverse menu with global influences. Location: 12 Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich, Switzerland.
• Farm Fresh Plates - Focuses on locally sourced ingredients. Location: 30 1st Avenue, New York City, USA.
• Green Glories - Known for creative vegetable dishes. Location: 88 Queen Victoria St, Cape Town, South Africa.
• Veggie Delight - Offers an array of vegan-friendly options. Location: 7 Orchard Rd, Singapore.
• Purely Plant - Celebrated for its farm-to-table cuisine. Location: 5 Las Ramblas, Barcelona, Spain.