Description
This comforting Summer Vegetable Stew is a hearty and wholesome dish packed with a colorful medley of fresh vegetables and optional protein. Simmered in a flavorful broth and enriched with evaporated milk for a creamy texture, this stew offers a perfect balance of taste and nutrition, ideal for warming up any seasonal meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 2 cups diced carrots
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups diced zucchini
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (14.5 oz) can corn, undrained
- 1/2 teaspoon rubbed sage
- 1/2 teaspoon all-purpose seasoning
- 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredients
- 2 cups diced cooked chicken or other protein
- Parmesan cheese, for topping
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant and translucent.
- Add Root Vegetables: Add diced potatoes and carrots to the pot; cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to start softening the vegetables.
- Simmer Initial Vegetables: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add Remaining Vegetables and Seasonings: Add diced zucchini, diced tomatoes with their juice, undrained corn, rubbed sage, all-purpose seasoning, and any optional cooked protein. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Cook Until Tender: Bring the stew back to a gentle boil and cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until all vegetables are tender and flavors meld.
- Incorporate Evaporated Milk: Reserve 2 to 3 tablespoons of evaporated milk separately. Pour the remaining evaporated milk into the stew and stir to combine.
- Thicken the Stew: In a small bowl, mix the reserved evaporated milk with cornstarch until smooth. Stir this slurry into the stew.
- Final Simmer: Simmer the stew for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the stew thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve the stew hot, topping with shredded Parmesan cheese and fresh diced tomatoes if desired for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and omit the optional protein.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste; more or less sage can enhance flavor as preferred.
- If you prefer a thinner stew, reduce the amount of cornstarch or evaporated milk accordingly.
- Leftovers can be stored refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Adding freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil at the end can brighten the flavors.
