Introduction to Autumn Harvest Stew

As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, I find myself craving comfort food that warms the soul. That’s where my Autumn Harvest Stew comes in! This hearty dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of the season’s bounty. Perfect for busy days, it’s a quick solution that brings the family together around the table. With vibrant vegetables and aromatic spices, this stew is sure to impress your loved ones. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it a staple in your fall cooking repertoire!

Autumn Harvest Stew: Discover Flavorful Seasonal Recipes

Author: Chef Shana
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Vegan

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Description

A hearty and flavorful stew that celebrates the bounty of autumn with seasonal vegetables and spices.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 butternut squash, peeled and cubed
2 potatoes, diced
1 cup green beans, trimmed
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup kale, chopped

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Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened.
Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
Add butternut squash, potatoes, and green beans; mix well.
Pour in vegetable broth and add thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
Add kale and cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted.
Serve hot and enjoy your autumn harvest stew!

Notes

Feel free to add other seasonal vegetables like parsnips or turnips.
This stew can be made ahead of time and tastes even better the next day.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Why You’ll Love This Autumn Harvest Stew

This Autumn Harvest Stew is a lifesaver for busy moms and professionals alike. It’s not only easy to make, but it also comes together in just over 50 minutes. The rich flavors of seasonal vegetables create a comforting dish that warms your heart. Plus, it’s vegan, making it a great option for everyone at the table. You’ll love how it fills your home with delightful aromas, inviting everyone to gather around!

Ingredients for Autumn Harvest Stew

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a delicious Autumn Harvest Stew. Here’s what you’ll need:

Olive oil: This healthy fat adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables to perfection.
Onion: A staple in many dishes, it brings sweetness and depth to the stew.
Carrots: Their natural sweetness balances the savory flavors and adds vibrant color.
Celery: This crunchy vegetable adds a refreshing note and enhances the overall flavor.
Garlic: A must-have for any stew, it infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic essence.
Butternut squash: This creamy, sweet squash is the star of the show, embodying autumn’s essence.
Potatoes: They provide heartiness and help thicken the stew, making it more filling.
Green beans: These add a pop of color and a slight crunch, making every bite exciting.
Vegetable broth: The base of the stew, it brings all the flavors together and keeps it vegan.
Dried thyme and rosemary: These herbs add a fragrant, earthy quality that complements the vegetables beautifully.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, they enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Kale: This leafy green adds nutrition and a lovely texture, making the stew even more wholesome.

Feel free to get creative! You can add other seasonal vegetables like parsnips or turnips for extra flavor. If you’re looking for a twist, consider using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes. For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.

How to Make Autumn Harvest Stew

Making this Autumn Harvest Stew is a delightful journey that fills your kitchen with warmth and aroma. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready in no time!

Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil

Start by heating two tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. The oil should shimmer but not smoke. This step is crucial as it sets the stage for sautéing the vegetables, creating a flavorful base for your stew.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Next, add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery to the pot. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they soften. This trio of vegetables, known as mirepoix, adds depth and sweetness to your vegan stew.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Once the vegetables are tender, stir in three minced garlic cloves. Cook for another minute, allowing the garlic to release its fragrant aroma. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can turn bitter and spoil the flavor.

Step 4: Incorporate the Squash and Potatoes

Now, it’s time to add the star ingredients: the cubed butternut squash and diced potatoes. Mix them well with the sautéed vegetables. Their natural sweetness will enhance the stew, making it a true autumn delight.

Step 5: Pour in the Broth and Seasonings

Pour in four cups of vegetable broth, ensuring all the ingredients are submerged. Add one teaspoon each of dried thyme and rosemary, along with salt and pepper to taste. These herbs will infuse the stew with a warm, earthy flavor that’s simply irresistible.

Step 6: Bring to a Boil and Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a hearty and satisfying dish.

Step 7: Add Kale and Finish Cooking

Finally, stir in one cup of chopped kale and cook for an additional 5 minutes until it wilts. This leafy green not only adds nutrition but also a lovely texture to your Autumn Harvest Stew. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of fall!

Tips for Success

Prep your vegetables ahead of time to save on cooking time.
Don’t skip the sautéing step; it builds flavor!
Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste; every palate is different.
For a thicker stew, mash a few potatoes against the pot.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for easy meals later in the week.

Equipment Needed

Large pot: A Dutch oven works great, but any heavy-bottomed pot will do.
Cutting board: Essential for chopping your veggies safely.
Sharp knife: A good knife makes prep a breeze.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and mixing your stew.

Variations

Protein Boost: Add cooked lentils or chickpeas for extra protein and heartiness.
Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
Root Veggies: Substitute parsnips or turnips for a unique twist on the classic stew.
Creamy Texture: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream for a rich, creamy finish.

Serving Suggestions

Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm, crusty baguette for dipping.
Salad: Pair with a light green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette.
Wine: A glass of Pinot Noir complements the stew beautifully.
Garnish: Top with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.

FAQs about Autumn Harvest Stew

Can I make Autumn Harvest Stew ahead of time?

Absolutely! This vegan stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it.

What can I substitute for butternut squash?

If butternut squash isn’t available, sweet potatoes or pumpkin work wonderfully as substitutes. They’ll still give you that lovely autumn flavor in your Autumn Harvest Stew.

Is this stew gluten-free?

Yes! All the ingredients in this hearty stew are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe choice for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I freeze Autumn Harvest Stew?

Definitely! This stew freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer.

What can I serve with Autumn Harvest Stew?

Pair it with crusty bread, a light salad, or even a glass of red wine. These sides complement the rich flavors of the Autumn Harvest Stew beautifully!

Final Thoughts

Cooking this Autumn Harvest Stew is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories. The aroma wafting through your home invites everyone to gather, share stories, and enjoy the warmth of the season. Each spoonful is a reminder of the beauty of autumn, filled with vibrant colors and flavors. Plus, knowing it’s a wholesome, vegan dish makes it even more satisfying. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or at a cozy gathering, this stew is sure to bring joy to your table. Embrace the season and let this stew become a cherished tradition!