Description

A hearty and comforting Summer Vegetable Stew packed with a medley of fresh vegetables, simmered in a savory broth, and enriched with evaporated milk for a creamy finish. Perfect for a wholesome family meal, this stew balances fresh summer produce with warm, satisfying flavors and can be easily customized with your choice of protein.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups diced potatoes
2 cups diced carrots

Vegetables & Broth

4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 cups diced zucchini
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 (14.5 oz) can corn, undrained

Seasonings & Thickener

1/2 teaspoon rubbed sage
1/2 teaspoon all-purpose seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk

Optional & Garnish

2 cups diced cooked chicken or other protein (optional)
Parmesan cheese, for topping

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Instructions

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
Cook Root Vegetables: Add diced potatoes and carrots to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow the vegetables to begin softening without browning.
Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until the vegetables start to become tender.
Add Remaining Vegetables and Protein: Stir in diced zucchini, canned diced tomatoes with juice, corn with liquid, rubbed sage, all-purpose seasoning, and optional cooked protein for added heartiness. Mix well.
Simmer to Tenderize: Return the stew to a gentle boil and cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until all vegetables are tender and flavors meld together.
Incorporate Evaporated Milk: Reserve 2 to 3 tablespoons of evaporated milk in a small bowl. Pour the remaining evaporated milk into the stew and stir thoroughly to combine creaminess throughout.
Prepare Thickening Slurry: Mix the reserved evaporated milk with cornstarch until smooth to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the stew to help thicken it.
Final Simmer and Seasoning: Simmer the stew for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Ladle the hot stew into bowls and top with shredded Parmesan cheese and fresh diced tomatoes if desired for an extra burst of fresh flavor.

Notes

You can substitute evaporated milk with half-and-half or heavy cream for a richer stew.
For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and omit any optional protein.
Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil as garnish to enhance freshness.
The stew can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove.
Adjust the seasoning towards the end to your preference, especially salt and pepper.
For gluten-free, ensure the all-purpose seasoning and broth are certified gluten-free.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Stew
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American