Hearty Vegetable Stew with Dumplings: A Culinary Haven of Comfort and Warmth

Hearty Vegetable Stew with Dumplings: A Comforting and Nourishing Meal

Indulge in the warmth and nourishment of a hearty vegetable stew with dumplings. This classic dish combines a medley of garden-fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and savory spices, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Ingredients for the Stew:

- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Ingredients for the Dumplings:

- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg, beaten

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes, or until softened.
2. Add the Garlic and Tomatoes: Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute more. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
3. Simmer the Stew: Pour in the vegetable broth and water. Season with thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Make the Dumplings: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Drop the Dumplings: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop the dumpling batter by rounded tablespoons into the simmering stew. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through.
6. Serve: Ladle the hearty vegetable stew with dumplings into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for an extra touch of flavor.

Tips:

- Add other vegetables to the stew, such as potatoes, zucchini, or green beans.
- Use a variety of herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the stew.
- Serve the stew with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Conclusion:

A hearty vegetable stew with dumplings is a comforting, nourishing, and flavorful meal perfect for cold winter nights or any time you crave a satisfying and wholesome dish. With its ease of preparation and endless variations, this versatile stew is a must-try for home cooks of all levels.