Hearty Vegan Beefless Stew Recipe – A Comforting Plant-Based Meal

On a cool winter’s night, nothing is quite as comforting as a bowl of hearty stew. This beefless stew, inspired by a Forks Over Knives recipe, is the perfect plant-based alternative to traditional beef stew. It’s filled with wholesome vegetables, rich flavors, and a satisfying blend of herbs and spices that make it a full meal on its own.

Why Choose a Beefless Stew?

Opting for a beefless stew not only offers a delicious and satisfying meal but also provides a wholesome way to enjoy hearty ingredients like mushrooms, carrots, potatoes, and herbs. This plant-based recipe is packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious choice that’s easy to make and ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting, meat-free dish.

Ingredients

To make this delicious vegan stew, you’ll need:

• 1 onion, diced

• 2¼ cups carrots, diced

• 2 celery stalks, diced

• 2 portobello mushroom caps, cubed

• 8 oz button mushrooms, chopped

• 6 cloves garlic, minced

• 6 cups potatoes, diced into ½-inch pieces

• ⅓ cup tomato paste

• 2 tbsp tamari (or soy sauce for depth of flavor)

• 1 cup red wine (optional for richness, or substitute with vegetable broth)

• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning

• 1 tbsp paprika

• 2 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped

• 1½ cups frozen peas

• ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

1. Cook the Base Vegetables: In a large Dutch oven or stockpot, sauté the onions, carrots, and celery with 1 tablespoon of water over medium-high heat for about 8 minutes. Stir frequently, adding water as needed to prevent sticking.

2. Add Mushrooms and Garlic: Stir in the portobello and button mushrooms, along with the minced garlic. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally and adding a bit of water if necessary to keep the vegetables from sticking.

3. Add Potatoes and Seasonings: Next, add the diced potatoes, tomato paste, tamari, red wine (if using), Italian seasoning, and paprika. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

4. Simmer the Stew: Pour in 4 cups of water or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low, add the chopped rosemary, and let the stew simmer, covered, for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Add Peas and Thicken the Stew: Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. For a thicker consistency, use an immersion blender to partially blend the stew, or blend 2 cups of the mixture and return it to the pot.

6. Finish and Serve: Stir in the fresh parsley, season to taste, and serve your hearty vegan stew warm. Enjoy it on its own or pair it with crusty bread for an even heartier meal.

Tips for Customizing Your Beefless Stew

Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste:

• Add other veggies: Try parsnips, sweet potatoes, or green beans for added texture and flavor.

• Switch up the herbs: Add fresh thyme, bay leaves, or even a touch of smoked paprika for a unique twist.

• Make it spicier: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne.

This vegan beefless stew is packed with flavor and perfect for those seeking a hearty, comforting meal that’s entirely plant-based. Give this recipe a try, and let it warm up your winter nights with its rich, savory taste!