Cacao Veggie Stew (not what you think!)
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Looking for a delicious and healthy stew that will warm you up on a cold day? This hearty potato stew is the perfect option! Made with potatoes, lentils, vegetables, herbs, and chocolate, this stew is packed with flavor and nutrients. Plus, it's vegan and gluten-free, so it's suitable for a variety of dietary needs. Try this recipe for a quick and satisfying meal that will help you power through your day with a smile.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup dry lentils, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes
- 2 cups cubed potatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cacao chunks or cacao powder
- Optional toppings: chopped fresh parsley, shredded cheese, sour cream, etc.
Directions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, celery, carrot, and bell pepper, and sauté until the vegetables are tender and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the lentils, broth, water, tomatoes, potatoes, tomato paste, thyme, oregano, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, allspice, ginger, black pepper, and salt to the pot. Stir until well combined and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for about 30 minutes, or until the lentils and potatoes are tender and the stew is thick and flavorful.
- Stir in the cacao chunks or powder and cook for a few more minutes, until the chocolate is melted and well combined with the other ingredients.
- Serve the hearty potato stew hot, topped with your favorite toppings, such as chopped fresh parsley, shredded cheese, or sour cream.
This recipe makes about 6 servings of hearty potato stew, depending on the size of your servings. You can adjust the ingredients to your liking and add more or less of each ingredient to suit your taste. Chocolate has a rich and decadent flavor, so it goes well with the potatoes and other ingredients in this stew. It is also a good source of antioxidants and mood-boosting nutrients, such as magnesium and iron, making it a healthy and nourishing addition to your diet. So why not give this recipe a try and enjoy a tasty and satisfying meal that will warm your heart and soul?