Old-Fashioned Vegan Stew

Introduction

This old-fashioned vegan stew is the kind of pot that fills the kitchen with a slow, savory perfume and invites everyone to linger at the table. Root vegetables, tender green beans, and a tomato-scented broth create a homely, comforting bowl without any fuss. It’s perfect for chilly evenings, casual dinners, or when you want a one-pot meal that tastes like tradition. Simple to make and easy to personalize, this stew becomes more delicious the longer it simmers.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This recipe is approachable for cooks of any level and relies on pantry-friendly ingredients that deliver a big flavor payoff. The combination of tomato paste and diced tomatoes gives the broth body and a gentle acidity that brightens the vegetables. Dried thyme and rosemary add an aromatic, woodsy background while a bay leaf deepens the savory notes. Because it’s plant-based and naturally filling, it satisfies without feeling heavy, and it’s easy to stretch for guests or meal prep. The method is forgiving: a gentle simmer lets flavors meld and textures soften into a cozy, spoonable stew.

Flavor and Texture

Expect a stew that balances soft, yielding potatoes with slightly crisp-tender green beans for contrast. Carrots and celery provide subtle sweetness and aromatic depth, while peas pop with a fresh lift. The tomato base is smooth and slightly tangy, and the herbs give a warm, savory finish. The result is a bowl that’s both hearty and light, with each spoonful offering a mix of melt-in-your-mouth and snappy textures. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh color and herbaceous hint.

Ingredients

– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 carrots, sliced
– 3 celery stalks, sliced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup peas, fresh or frozen
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Step by Step Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the sliced carrots, celery, and potatoes, cooking for about 8 minutes until they begin to soften.
5. Add the green beans and peas, stir well to combine all the vegetables.
6. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the vegetable broth.
7. Stir in the tomato paste, ensuring it is fully incorporated into the broth.
8. Add the dried thyme, dried rosemary, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for about 45 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
10. Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning if necessary.
11. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

Tips for Best Results

Use potatoes that hold their shape, like Yukon Golds, so they become creamy without disintegrating. If you prefer a thicker stew, mash a few potato cubes against the side of the pot and stir to naturally thicken the broth. Taste and adjust salt near the end, since simmering can concentrate flavors. For extra depth, sweat the vegetables a little longer at the start to coax out their natural sugars. Add a squeeze of lemon or a splash of vinegar just before serving if you want a brighter finish.

Storage and Make Ahead

This stew stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and often tastes even better after a day as the flavors marry. Cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to restore the original consistency. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly to preserve texture.

Final Thought

Old-fashioned vegan stew proves that simple ingredients can make a deeply satisfying meal. It’s forgiving, wholesome, and perfect for cozy nights or feeding a crowd. Keep the recipe in your rotation for an easy, soul-soothing dinner option.