Creamy Quinoa-Veggie Stew
Try this Creamy Quinoa-Veggie Stew recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Creamy Quinoa-Veggie Stew recipe, or contribute your own.
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 stalks celery diced
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 tablespoon onion powder
- 6 cups of vegetable broth
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 cup white quinoa
- 1 cup raw cashews (soaked overnight in water)
- 1 sweet or yellow onion diced
- 3 medium carrots peeled and chopped small
- 2 cups sweet potato peeled and diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (with juice) - i use organic no salt added, plain (no added spices)
- 2 tablespoons of spice blend (see below)
- 2-3 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 teaspoon fine-grain sea salt
- combine all the spices together in a leftover spic
- Carbohydrate 12.4373386482852 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 1.786140937801 g
- Fiber 2.51725103640495 g
- Protein 1.39755791727263 g
- Saturated Fat 0.25683965629754 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -8 (70g)
- Sodium 38.729241320669 mg
- Sugar 9.9200876118802 g
- Trans Fat 0.114423562534985 g
- Calories 68 calories
Step-by-step
- Soak the cashews overnight in water.
- In a blender, combine the soaked and drained cashews with 1 cup of vegetable broth and blend on the highest speed until smooth.
- Set aside.
- In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic and saute until onion is translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add the carrots, bell pepper, potato, celery, diced tomatoes with their juices, quinoa, remaining 5 cups broth, cashew cream and spices.
- Stir well to combine.
- Bring to a boil and reduce to medium-low heat.
- Simmer the stew uncovered for 20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- During the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the spinach.
- Serve immediately or store in airtight glass containers in the refrigerator for 1-2 weeks.
- Also freezes well. Just leave room for the stew to expand in the freezer.
A Busy Mom's Secret to a Delicious and Nutritious Weeknight Meal: Creamy Quinoa-Veggie Stew
Life as a working mom is a whirlwind. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and keeping the house somewhat tidy, finding time for anything, let alone a healthy, home-cooked meal, feels like a Herculean task. Many nights, the siren call of takeout or frozen dinners is almost irresistible. But I’ve discovered a secret weapon in my battle against dinnertime chaos: a hearty, flavourful, and surprisingly simple Creamy Quinoa-Veggie Stew. This recipe isn't just a meal; it's a lifesaver, a stress reliever, and a way to nourish my family without sacrificing precious time.
The beauty of this stew lies in its versatility and ease of preparation. I often prep the vegetables on the weekend – a quick chop and store in containers – to minimize weeknight cooking time. Then, on a busy Tuesday, it’s a matter of throwing everything into a pot, letting it simmer, and voila! Dinner is served. The creamy texture, thanks to the soaked cashews, is incredibly satisfying, transforming simple vegetables into a luxurious, comforting meal. The quinoa provides a good dose of protein and fiber, keeping everyone full and energized. And the best part? It tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping and packed lunches.
Beyond the Recipe: A Mom's Perspective on Time and Nutrition
As a mom, I'm constantly striving to balance healthy eating with the realities of a busy schedule. I know that feeding my family nutritious meals shouldn't be a marathon; it should be achievable within the constraints of a typical day. This recipe embodies that philosophy. It's a testament to the power of simple ingredients, smart planning, and a little bit of culinary creativity. It's also a great way to introduce my kids to vegetables – the creamy cashew sauce masks any potential "vegetable resistance," making even the pickiest eaters happy to slurp it up.
More Than Just a Meal: A Family Ritual
Cooking this stew has become more than just preparing dinner; it's a small act of self-care and a way to connect with my family. The aroma filling the kitchen as it simmers creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. It’s a ritual that signals the end of the workday and the beginning of family time. We often sit around the table, sharing stories about our day, while enjoying the delicious stew. These shared moments, fuelled by a simple, wholesome meal, are the things that truly matter.
Tips for Success and Customization:
Spice it Up: Feel free to experiment with different spices to tailor the stew to your taste. A dash of cumin or coriander can add depth and complexity. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper.
Veggie Variety: Don't be afraid to substitute vegetables based on what's in season or what you have on hand. Broccoli, zucchini, or green beans would all be delicious additions.
Make it a Meal Prep Marvel: Double the recipe and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week. This stew freezes beautifully, making it perfect for those nights when you're truly pressed for time.
Beyond the Weeknight: This Creamy Quinoa-Veggie Stew is also perfect for weekend brunches or potlucks. Its rich flavor and hearty texture make it a crowd-pleaser.
In conclusion, this Creamy Quinoa-Veggie Stew is more than just a recipe; it's a solution to the everyday challenge of healthy eating amidst a busy lifestyle. It’s a testament to the fact that nourishing and delicious meals don't have to be complicated or time-consuming. With a little planning and a dash of creativity, even the busiest mom can create a comforting and healthy meal that brings the family together.
So, ditch the takeout menus, embrace the simplicity, and experience the joy of a truly satisfying and nutritious weeknight meal. You won’t regret it!
