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In the heart of every kitchen lies the magic of home-cooked meals that not only nourish the body but also warm the soul. Cooking has long been a way for families to gather, share stories, and create lasting memories. Among the myriad of recipes that evoke a sense of comfort and nostalgia, the Rustic Roots & Veggie Bliss Stew stands out as a delightful fusion of wholesome ingredients and robust flavors. This stew is not only simple to prepare but also brimming with nutrition, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or cozy nights in.

Hearty Crockpot Vegetable Stew with Garlic Bread

Discover the comforting appeal of Rustic Roots & Veggie Bliss Stew, a delicious and nutritious dish perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Made from fresh, seasonal vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and parsnips, this hearty stew is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Learn how to enhance it with herbs and spices, and pair it with homemade garlic bread for a fulfilling meal. Enjoy the warmth and connection that comes from sharing homemade food with loved ones.

Ingredients
  

For the Hearty Vegetable Stew:

3 cups vegetable broth

2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

2 carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds

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

1 cup bell peppers, chopped (mix of red and yellow for vibrant color)

1 cup mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button works well)

1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

1 medium onion, diced (yellow or white)

4 garlic cloves, minced

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)

1 cup frozen peas (to be added later)

For the Garlic Bread:

1 whole loaf of French bread

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

4 garlic cloves, minced

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Pinch of salt

Instructions
 

Sauté the Aromatics:

    In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until it becomes translucent and softens. Stir in the minced garlic and continue to sauté for an additional minute, just until fragrant. Remove from heat.

      Prepare the Stew:

        Using a crockpot, transfer the sautéed onion and garlic mixture. Add in the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, green beans, bell peppers, mushrooms, and undrained diced tomatoes. Pour in the vegetable broth and sprinkle in the dried thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well mixed.

          Cook the Stew:

            Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. About 30 minutes prior to serving, add the frozen peas to the stew, stirring gently until evenly distributed.

              Make the Garlic Bread:

                Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and well-combined. Slice the French bread in half lengthwise and spread the garlic butter mixture generously over both halves.

                  Bake the Garlic Bread:

                    Place the prepared bread halves on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the bread is golden and crispy. For an extra crunchy finish, place it under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, keeping a close watch to prevent burning.

                      Serve:

                        Ladle generous portions of the hearty vegetable stew into individual bowls, pairing each serving with warm slices of garlic bread on the side for dipping.

                          Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                            15 minutes | 8 hours | Serves 6

                              - Presentation Tips: Serve the stew garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. Arrange the garlic bread in a basket lined with a napkin for a rustic touch!