Vegetable stew with mushrooms

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 small carrot, diced
• 1 small celery stalk, diced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
• 1 small potato, diced
• 1 small bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (or red wine for a richer flavor)
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/4 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
• 1/2 cup chopped spinach or kale (optional, for added greens)

Instructions:

1. Heat the Oil: In a medium pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

2. Cook Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.

3. Add Vegetables: Stir in the diced carrot, celery, and mushrooms. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the mushrooms start to release their juices.

4. Add Potatoes and Bell Pepper: Stir in the diced potato and bell pepper. Cook for another 3 minutes.

5. Incorporate Tomatoes and Wine: Pour in the diced tomatoes and wine. Stir to combine and let it cook for about 2 minutes to let the alcohol evaporate slightly.

6. Add Broth and Seasonings: Add the vegetable broth, smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper. Stir well.

7. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined.

8. Add Greens (Optional): If using, stir in the chopped spinach or kale and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted.

9. Finish and Serve: Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

10. Serve: Ladle the stew into a bowl and enjoy hot, with a slice of crusty bread or over a bed of polenta if you like.

This stew blends the hearty textures of autumn vegetables with the savory richness of mushrooms, complemented by aromatic herbs and a splash of wine. Enjoy your cozy, flavorful meal!