Vegetarian

Västerbotten Vegetable Stew

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Västerbotten Vegetable Stew
A hearty Västerbotten vegetable stew served with a side of rye bread.

Embrace the cozy essence of Swedish cuisine with this delightful Västerbotten Vegetable Stew. Traditionally known for its use of iconic blue cheese, this vegetarian twist captures the same heartwarming flavors using plant-based ingredients. Perfect for chilly evenings, this stew is a comforting bowl of nourishment that brings the spirit of Sweden right to your table.

“In every spoonful of Västerbotten Vegetable Stew lies the soul of Swedish comfort food.”

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 2 stalks celery, sliced
  • 1 cup pearl barley or farro
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 block (8 oz) firm tofu, crumbled
  • 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast
  • Fresh dill, chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant. Stir in the carrots and celery, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.

  2. Add Grains and Liquids: Incorporate the barley or farro into the pot along with vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato paste, thyme, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.

  3. Simmer Stew: Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the grains are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid.

  4. Prepare Tofu Mixture: In a small bowl, combine crumbled tofu with nutritional yeast. Mix well to mimic the umami flavor of Västerbotten cheese.

  5. Combine and Finish: Stir the tofu mixture into the stew, allowing it to heat through for about 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

  6. Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls, garnishing each with fresh dill. Serve hot with a side of crusty rye bread for dipping.

This Västerbotten Vegetable Stew is not only a celebration of Swedish flavors but also an homage to sustainable eating practices. Enjoy this comforting dish as you cozy up by the fire or share it during a festive family gathering. Its rich, satisfying taste will transport your senses straight to the heart of Sweden.

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