Hearty Pre-Paycheck Stew

Ingredients for Hearty Pre-Paycheck Stew

Here’s a basic list of ingredients, but feel free to swap out or add whatever you have on hand:

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil or butter
• 1 onion, diced
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-3 carrots, sliced
• 2-3 potatoes, cubed (or sweet potatoes, if available)
• 1 can of diced tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes, chopped)
• 1 can of beans (kidney, black, or white beans work well)
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or water with bouillon cubes)
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or any dried herbs you have, like oregano or basil)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup frozen vegetables (such as peas, corn, or green beans)
• Optional: Cooked sausage, ground beef, or chicken for added protein

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or ladle
• Cutting board and knife

Directions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the vegetable oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté for 4-5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Cook

Add the sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, and any other hearty vegetables you have on hand (such as celery, zucchini, or bell peppers). Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to let the vegetables soften.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the can of diced tomatoes, including their juice, and stir to combine. Then, add the vegetable broth or water with bouillon cubes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Add Beans and Frozen Vegetables

Once the stew has simmered, add the can of beans (drained and rinsed) and the frozen vegetables. Continue to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Season the stew with salt, pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika (if using). Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you have any leftover cooked protein, now is the time to add it to the stew and heat it through.

Serve the stew hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

• Use What You Have: This stew is all about using up what you already have in your pantry or fridge. If you’re missing an ingredient, don’t worry! Substitute with something similar, or leave it out altogether.
• Add Protein: If you have leftover chicken, ground beef, or sausage, throw it in! This will make the stew even heartier and more filling.
• Freeze for Later: This stew freezes well, so if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftover stew in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days. As with most stews, the flavors get even better the next day, making it a perfect meal prep option. Reheat individual portions on the stove or in the microwave.

If you make a large batch and want to save some for later, freeze it in portion-sized containers for easy future meals. When ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

Variations and Swaps

• Different Beans: Don’t have kidney beans? Use black beans, white beans, or chickpeas instead. Any type of canned bean will work here.
• Root Vegetables: Sweet potatoes, parsnips, or turnips can be added or substituted for regular potatoes to give the stew a different flavor and texture.
• Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the stew.
• Grain Add-Ins: For a heartier stew, add cooked rice, quinoa, or barley in the final few minutes of cooking.