Hearty Vegetable Stew with Rustic Bread -

There’s something profoundly comforting about a bowl of hearty vegetable stew paired with a slice of freshly baked rustic bread. This delightful combination not only warms the body but also nourishes the soul. In an age where our lives are often dictated by hectic schedules and fast-paced living, the importance of wholesome meals has never been more pronounced. Dishes that bring people together—like a steaming pot of vegetable stew—serve as a reminder to slow down and savor the moment. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night spent at home, this recipe for hearty vegetable stew with rustic bread is perfect for creating cherished memories around the dining table.

Hearty Vegetable Stew with Rustic Bread

Experience the ultimate comfort food with this hearty vegetable stew and rustic bread combo. This wholesome dish showcases a medley of fresh vegetables, enhancing both flavor and nutrition. It's perfect for gathering loved ones around the table, reminding us to slow down and enjoy every bite. The rustic bread, with its chewy texture, perfectly complements the flavorful stew, making each meal a special occasion. Discover how to create this heartwarming recipe that nourishes both body and soul.

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Ingredients

For the Hearty Vegetable Stew:

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 large onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 carrots, sliced

2 stalks celery, chopped

1 bell pepper, diced (any color)

1 zucchini, diced

1 cup mushrooms, sliced

2 medium potatoes, cubed

1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)

4 cups vegetable broth

1 cup frozen peas

2 teaspoons dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Rustic Bread:

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast

1 teaspoon sugar

1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F)

1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

Prepare the Dough for Rustic Bread:

- In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.

- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until the mixture forms a rough dough.

- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Make the Hearty Vegetable Stew:

- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic; sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

- Add the sliced carrots, chopped celery, and bell pepper. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until slightly tender.

- Stir in the zucchini, mushrooms, potatoes, and green beans. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.

- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the vegetable broth. Add thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, until all the vegetables are tender. Stir in frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Bake the Rustic Bread:

- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has risen, punch it down and shape it into a round loaf.

- Place the loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cut a few slashes on top of the dough to allow it to expand during baking.

- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Let it cool on a wire rack.

Serve:

- Ladle the hearty vegetable stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with slices of rustic bread on the side for dipping.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 1 hour 30 minutes | 4-6 servings