Hearty Green Bean and Potato Stew

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🥔🥬 Hearty Green Bean and Potato Stew

🌟 Introduction

Green Bean and Potato Stew is a simple, nourishing, and budget-friendly comfort dish made with tender potatoes and sweet green beans slowly cooked in a savory, herb-infused broth. It’s the kind of meal many families grow up eating — warm, filling, and deeply satisfying. Using frozen vegetables makes it quick and convenient while still healthy and flavorful.

This dish is perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a side with meat, chicken, or fish.

📜 History

The combination of potatoes and green beans has deep roots in:

  • Mediterranean peasant cooking
  • European farmhouse stews
  • North African tagines
  • Middle Eastern vegetable braises

Potatoes became popular worldwide because they are cheap and filling, while green beans add freshness and nutrients. Together they form a classic “home kitchen” recipe passed down through generations.

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

Main

  • 500 g frozen green beans
  • 500 g diced potatoes (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

Flavor Base

  • 2 tomatoes, chopped or 1 cup canned tomatoes
  • 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp turmeric (optional for color)
  • 1 tsp dried thyme or oregano
  • Salt to taste

Optional Add-ins

  • Carrots
  • Bell peppers
  • Chickpeas
  • Ground beef or chicken
  • Fresh parsley or coriander
  • Lemon juice

🔪 Formation (Preparation Steps)

  1. Dice potatoes evenly for uniform cooking.
  2. Chop onion and garlic.
  3. If using frozen vegetables, no need to thaw.
  4. Measure spices and broth.

🍳 Cooking Methods

Method 1 – Classic Stovetop Stew (Recommended)

  1. Heat oil in a large pot.
  2. Sauté onions until soft and golden.
  3. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
  4. Stir in tomato paste and spices.
  5. Add potatoes and green beans.
  6. Pour broth to cover vegetables.
  7. Cover and simmer 20–25 minutes until tender.
  8. Adjust seasoning and garnish.

Method 2 – Slow Cooker

  • Add all ingredients
  • Cook 4–6 hours on low
  • Very soft and rich flavor

Method 3 – Oven Bake (Casserole Style)

  • Mix ingredients in baking dish
  • Cover with foil
  • Bake at 180°C for 35–40 minutes

Method 4 – Pressure Cooker

  • Cook for 8–10 minutes under pressure
  • Quick and convenient

📝 Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Sauté aromatics.
  2. Add spices and tomato base.
  3. Add vegetables.
  4. Pour broth.
  5. Cook until soft.
  6. Taste and adjust salt.
  7. Serve warm.

💪 Benefits

  • Rich in fiber for digestion
  • Potatoes provide lasting energy
  • Green beans support heart health
  • Low cost and affordable
  • Vegan and vegetarian friendly
  • Light yet filling

🥗 Nutrition (Approx per serving)

  • Calories: 220–260 kcal
  • Carbs: 40–45g
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Fat: 6–8g
  • Vitamin C: High
  • Potassium: High
  • Iron: Moderate

❤️ Why People Love This Dish (For Comfort Food Lovers)

  • Warm and cozy
  • Soft, melt-in-mouth potatoes
  • Fresh vegetable flavor
  • Easy ingredients
  • Great for families
  • Perfect for cold days

🍽 Serving Ideas

Serve with:

  • Crusty bread
  • Rice or couscous
  • Grilled chicken or fish
  • Fried eggs on top
  • Yogurt or salad on the side

🧠 Pro Tips

  • Add butter at the end for richness
  • Sprinkle cheese for casserole style
  • Add chili flakes for spice
  • Add lemon juice for brightness
  • Use smoked paprika for deeper flavor

🎯 Conclusion

Green Bean and Potato Stew is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly comforting and delicious. It’s healthy, affordable, and adaptable to any kitchen. Whether you enjoy it as a light vegetarian meal or a hearty side dish, it’s a timeless recipe that brings warmth to the table.

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