Vegetable Stew with Cheesy Dumplings

Vegetable Stew with Cheesy Dumplings

As the chilly weather settles over the Highveld, there’s nothing quite like a hearty Vegetable Stew with Cheesy Dumplings to warm the soul. This comforting dish incorporates a delightful mix of fresh vegetables and soft, cheesy dumplings that can be made quickly and easily. Whether you’re looking for a filling supper or a satisfying lunch, this stew is a versatile recipe that you can enjoy any time. What’s more, you can swap out the dumplings for a circle of scone cobblers baked until golden if you prefer. Here’s how to prepare this savory stew that you can make ahead and reheat for extra convenience.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Vegetable Stew with Cheesy Dumplings is a delightful one-pot meal that ticks all the right boxes—it’s nutritious, delicious, and easy to make. The combination of vibrant vegetables not only provides a plethora of flavors but also essential vitamins and minerals that are key for your health, especially during the colder months. The cheesy dumplings add a rich, comforting touch, creating a well-rounded meal that will satisfy even the most discerning eater. Plus, it’s an excellent opportunity to utilize seasonal vegetables, making it a perfect choice for an eco-friendly dish that supports local farming.

Ingredients

The following ingredients will yield a rich, flavorful vegetable stew, perfect for cozying up on a chilly evening:

  • 15 ml cooking oil
  • 1 red onion, finely sliced
  • 1 stick of celery, sliced
  • 1/2 cabbage, sliced
  • 400 gr chopped tomatoes (canned or fresh)
  • 375 ml vegetable stock
  • a good pinch of crushed chili flakes
  • 1 tsp of paprika (or 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper)
  • 4 potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 cup sliced green beans (you may also add other vegetables of your choice)
  • 1/2 tsp fresh ground black pepper
  • a few sprigs of thyme and/or rosemary
  • 1 cup of vegetable stock (use a stock cube)

Dumplings

  • 50 gr butter
  • 250 ml self-raising flour
  • 5 ml mixed herbs
  • 1/4 cup grated cheese

Method

Step 1: Heat the cooking oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely sliced onion and sauté for a few minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This step creates a flavorful base for your stew.

Step 2: Add the sliced celery and continue to sauté for an additional few minutes to enhance the flavor profile further. Once combined, introduce the crushed chili flakes, paprika, and fresh thyme or rosemary into the pan, stirring them in well to release their essential oils and aromas.

Step 3: Following this, add the sliced cabbage to the mixture, frying for another few minutes. The cabbage will wilts slightly, adding depth to the stew. Then, pour in the chopped tomatoes and stir well, combining all the ingredients.

Step 4: Pour in the vegetable stock, ensuring to mix everything together. Allow the pot to come to a simmer before adding in the cubed potatoes and sliced green beans, giving everything another good stir to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and allow it to simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows the vegetables to become tender while the flavors meld beautifully. Taste the stew and add salt as your palate dictates.

Step 6: While the stew is cooking, prepare the dumplings by rubbing the butter into the self-raising flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Next, mix in the combined herbs and grated cheese. Incorporate enough water to form a stiff dough, but don’t over-mix as you want the dumplings to remain fluffy.

Step 7: Divide your dumpling dough into eight equal portions and gently drop them into the simmering stew. Cover the pot and cook for about 15-20 minutes until the dumplings have turned fluffy and cooked through.

Step 8: Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh chopped herbs or parsley for an added touch of color and flavor. Enjoy your magnificent creation at lunch or dinner!

FAQs

Can I customize the vegetables in the stew?

Absolutely! This stew is highly customizable. Feel free to add any seasonal vegetables like carrots, peas, or even butternut squash for additional flavor and texture.

Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?

The dumpling dough can be prepared ahead of time and kept in the refrigerator for up to a day. However, it’s best to cook them fresh as they are fluffiest that way.

How long will leftovers last?

The stew can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—up to 3 months. Just reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I make a vegan version of this recipe?

Yes! Simply substitute the butter in the dumplings with a vegan alternative and ensure the cheese is dairy-free, and you’ll have a delicious vegan version of this hearty stew.

What can I serve with this stew?

This stew is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to add a side, consider crusty bread or a fresh salad to round out the meal.

Conclusion

With its vibrant flavors, nourishing ingredients, and delightful cheesy dumplings, this Vegetable Stew with Cheesy Dumplings is the perfect dish to warm you up on those chilly Highveld nights. Not only is it straightforward to prepare, but it also serves as a fantastic healthful meal option that the entire family can enjoy. Whether you stick to the original recipe or get creative with your favorite veggies and herbs, you’ll find this stew to be a comforting staple in your kitchen.

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