Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this delightful Mediterranean Vegetable Stew. Bursting with vibrant colors and rich flavors, this stew is a journey through the sunny landscapes and coastal cuisine of the Mediterranean region. To complement its savory goodness, consider serving it with generous pieces of pita bread and a scoop of creamy hummus. This recipe serves six, making it perfect for sharing a Mediterranean-inspired feast with your loved ones.
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, chopped
- 1 red onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1 eggplant, chopped
- 1 (15-ounce) can artichokes, drained and chopped
- ⅓ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
- 2 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
- 4 cups Vegetable Broth
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
INSTRUCTIONS:
- In a 4-quart slow cooker, combine all the ingredients listed above. This includes the extra-virgin olive oil, chopped garlic, red onion, red bell pepper, chopped eggplant, chopped artichokes, pitted and chopped Kalamata olives, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, red pepper flakes, dried oregano, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. These ingredients will come together to create a Mediterranean symphony of flavors.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low heat for 4 to 6 hours. This gentle cooking process allows the ingredients to meld and infuse their Mediterranean essence into every bite.
Serve:
Serve your Mediterranean Vegetable Stew in bowls, and savor the rich, hearty combination of vegetables and spices. To complete the Mediterranean experience, tear off large pieces of pita bread and scoop up the stew, adding a dollop of creamy hummus for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Preparing Eggplant:
Eggplant, also known as aubergine in many parts of the world, is a versatile vegetable that can be prepared in various ways. Contrary to some beliefs, there’s no need to salt eggplant to remove bitterness, especially for this recipe. You can leave the skins on or remove them based on your preference. Eggplant can be boiled, steamed, sautéed, stir-fried, deep-fried, braised, baked, grilled, broiled, or microwaved, making it a fantastic addition to Mediterranean dishes.
Enjoy:
Indulge in the flavors of the Mediterranean with this comforting and aromatic stew. It’s a delightful way to bring the sunny tastes of the Mediterranean to your dinner table, transporting your taste buds to the shores of this enchanting region.
As you savor each spoonful of this Mediterranean Vegetable Stew, you’ll be transported to the sun-soaked landscapes and vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean coast. This hearty and wholesome dish captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine with its combination of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs. Share this Mediterranean feast with friends and family, and let the warmth and richness of this stew bring a touch of the Mediterranean into your home.
