Nigel Slater’s Vegetable Stew is a hearty, nourishing dish that brings out the natural flavors of fresh vegetables in a comforting broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a satisfying meal any time of the year, this stew is both simple to prepare and packed with wholesome goodness. Ready in under an hour, it’s a delightful choice for vegetarians and anyone looking for a lighter, flavorful option.

What is Nigel Slater’s Vegetable Stew?

Nigel Slater’s Vegetable Stew is a rustic dish featuring a medley of seasonal vegetables cooked in a lightly seasoned broth, often with herbs and olive oil. This versatile recipe can be adjusted to suit the produce you have on hand, making it an ideal go-to for healthy, comforting meals.

Other Yummy Recipes

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Simple and Wholesome: A straightforward dish with fresh ingredients.
Adaptable: Easily customizable with different vegetables or grains.
Healthy and Light: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and nutrients.
One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup makes it perfect for busy days.
Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and seasonal produce.

Ingredients Needed for Nigel Slater Vegetable Stew

Carrots: 2 large, peeled and chopped
Potatoes: 2 medium, diced
Zucchini (courgette): 1 large, sliced
Leeks: 2, trimmed and chopped
Green beans: 200g, trimmed and halved
Tomatoes: 3 large, chopped, or 400g canned tomatoes
Olive oil: 3 tablespoons, for cooking
Garlic cloves: 2, minced
Vegetable stock: 1 liter, for the broth
Fresh thyme: 2 sprigs
Bay leaf: 1
Salt and pepper: To taste
Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped for garnish

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Large pot or Dutch oven
Knife and chopping board
Wooden spoon
Ladle

Instructions to Make Nigel Slater Vegetable Stew

Prepare the vegetables: Chop the carrots, potatoes, zucchini, leeks, and green beans into bite-sized pieces.
Heat the olive oil: In a large pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat.
Sauté the aromatics: Add the garlic and leeks to the pot, cooking until softened and fragrant.
Add the vegetables: Stir in the carrots, potatoes, and green beans, coating them in the olive oil. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Incorporate the tomatoes: Add the chopped or canned tomatoes to the pot, followed by the thyme and bay leaf. Cook for another 5 minutes.
Pour in the stock: Add the vegetable stock and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer.
Simmer until tender: Cover the pot and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Season and serve: Remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs, then season the stew with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

What to Serve With Nigel Slater Vegetable Stew

Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
Steamed Rice: A great way to make the dish more filling.
Green Salad: Adds a refreshing contrast to the warm stew.
Grated Parmesan: A sprinkle of cheese enhances the savory flavors.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Vegetable Stew

Use fresh vegetables: Choose seasonal produce for the best flavor.
Don’t overcook: Simmer the vegetables just until tender to preserve their texture.
Add legumes: Include chickpeas or lentils for extra protein and heartiness.
Experiment with herbs: Try rosemary, basil, or oregano for different flavor profiles.
Make it ahead: The flavors deepen when reheated the next day.
Balance the seasoning: Taste the broth before serving and adjust the salt and pepper.

What are Variations of Nigel Slater’s Vegetable Stew?

Add grains: Include cooked quinoa, barley, or couscous for a complete meal.
Make it creamy: Stir in coconut milk or a splash of cream for a richer texture.
Include spice: Add chili flakes or curry powder for a spicier version.
Use root vegetables: Swap in parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes for a different taste.

How Do I Store Nigel Slater Vegetable Stew?

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How Do I Reheat Nigel Slater Vegetable Stew?

On the stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of stock or water if needed.
In the microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring halfway through.

How Can I Make Nigel Slater’s Vegetable Stew Healthier?

Reduce oil: Use less olive oil and rely on the natural flavors of the vegetables.
Add leafy greens: Stir in spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
Skip the salt: Use low-sodium vegetable stock and herbs for seasoning.
Incorporate more fiber: Include beans or lentils for added nutrition.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

Calories: 180 kcal
Protein: 4g
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 5g

FAQs

Can I Make Nigel Slater Vegetable Stew Ahead of Time?

Yes, vegetable stew can be made ahead of time. The flavors often deepen when it sits, making it even more delicious the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.

Can I Freeze Vegetable Stew?

Yes, vegetable stew freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What Vegetables Can I Use in Nigel Slater’s Vegetable Stew?

This stew is versatile and works well with a variety of vegetables. Common options include carrots, potatoes, zucchini, green beans, celery, and bell peppers. You can also add root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for a heartier version.

How Can I Make Nigel Slater’s Vegetable Stew More Filling?

To make the stew more filling, add cooked legumes like chickpeas, lentils, or beans. You can also include grains such as quinoa, barley, or rice to transform it into a complete meal.

Final Words

Nigel Slater’s Vegetable Stew is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its fresh, wholesome ingredients and rich flavors, it’s a simple yet satisfying recipe that can be tailored to your preferences. Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a bowl of nutritious, hearty goodness!

More Delicious Recipes