Perfect And Irresistible Potato Stew Recipe With Unique Health Benefits

In the cozy embrace of culinary tradition, Potato Stew is a testament to timeless flavors. From the rolling hills of Ireland to the bustling streets of urban kitchens, this dish has whispered tales of comfort, warmth, and history. 

Each spoonful melds the rustic essence of earth-grown potatoes with a symphony of aromatic herbs, drawing families closer to the dinner table.

As winter’s chill beckons, there’s no dish more inviting than this velvety concoction, a beacon of home-cooked love. 

Dive into this journey, where every bite narrates a story, ensuring that the legacy of Potato Stew remains undiminished, a treasured gem in the world of gourmet wonders.

What Is Potato Stew?

Potato Stew is a hearty dish rooted in various global traditions. It’s often enriched with onions, garlic, and aromatic herbs crafted primarily from potatoes simmered until tender. 

One might find meat, vegetables, or dairy additions depending on regional variations. The result is a comforting, rich bowl of flavors, where the potato, with its earthy and wholesome taste, plays the starring role. 

Ideal for chilly nights, Potato Stew offers warmth, sustenance, and a taste of home in every bite.

History Of Potato Stew 

Potato Stew’s origins are intertwined with the global journey of the potato. Native to South America, potatoes reached European shores in the 16th century, quickly becoming a staple. 

Various regions adapted them into their culinary repertoire, with stews emerging as a popular preparation. From Ireland’s spud-centric dishes to Spain’s “patatas guisadas,” simmering potatoes with local ingredients became widespread. 

The stew evolved with regional tastes, using spices, meats, and vegetables, reflecting both sustenance needs and cultural influences.

Interesting Facts About The Potato Stew 

• Global Journey: Potato Stew has versions in nearly every continent, showcasing diverse regional flavors.
• Humble Beginnings: Historically, it was a meal of peasants, utilizing readily available and affordable ingredients.
• Versatility: While some include meats like beef or chicken, numerous vegetarian and vegan adaptations exist worldwide.
• Cold War Comfort: During World War II, potato stew nourished soldiers and civilians due to its filling nature.
• Slow Cook Wonder: In many cultures, the stew is simmered for hours, allowing flavors to meld perfectly.
• A Healer’s Touch: Potatoes are rich in vitamin C; sailors once consumed them to prevent scurvy.
• Irish Twist: It’s often paired with soda bread for a complete, hearty meal in Ireland.

What Makes The Potato Stew Special? 

Several things make this potato stew recipe such a great choice. This no-nonsense recipe helps you quickly make a potato stew with very little fuss.

You don’t need any hard-to-find ingredients to make the stew. You’ll already have most of the ingredients in your cupboard.

Our potato stew recipe is also straightforward to make. In total, it will only take you 40 minutes to complete the stew from scratch. You can use almost any veggies in the stew, making it a versatile and flexible dish.

Being able to use any leftover veggies is a neat bonus too. However, the most crucial thing that makes this recipe great is its flavors.

Considering you only have to cook the potatoes and vegetables in a well-seasoned broth, this dish is loaded with epic flavors.

Ingredients List

Ingredients	Details/Quantity
Potatoes	Any kind, peeled and diced, about 3-4 cups
Celery	2 stalks, finely chopped
Carrots	2 medium-sized, peeled and diced
Onions	1 large, finely chopped
Frozen peas	1 cup
Dijon mustard	2 teaspoons
Soy sauce	1 tablespoon
Garlic	3 cloves, minced
Tomato paste	2 tablespoons
Low-sodium vegetable broth	4 cups
Salt & pepper	To taste
Olive oil	2 tablespoons
Rosemary	1 teaspoon, fresh or dried, finely chopped
Italian seasoning	1 teaspoon
Thyme	1 teaspoon, fresh or dried, finely chopped

Ingredient Needed

To make this recipe even easier, we’ve decided to give you some recipe notes to make it much easier to make the potato stew.

Below are notes about the ingredients used to make this potato stew. If you remember each note, you can make a delicious potato stew quickly.

Potatoes

• When following a potato stew recipe, one of the biggest questions is what potato you should use. The answer to that question is any potato you like.
• Some kinds of potatoes work better than others. We like to use Russet potatoes or Maris Piper potatoes.
• Both of these potatoes work brilliantly in a stew.

Vegetables

• This recipe is also versatile regarding the vegetables you can use. Ultimately, you can use any vegetable to make this potato stew.
• One tip we would give you is to use any leftover veggies in your refrigerator. This potato stew recipe is an excellent opportunity to use vegetables before expiration.
• We recommend using celery, onions, frozen peas, and carrots to make the most nutritious potato stew.

Mustard

• Mustard is an absolute must in this potato stew recipe because it gives the dish a more robust flavor and adds depth.
• It’s worth noting that you don’t have to use Dijon mustard if you prefer a different type of mustard.

Soy Sauce And Tomato Paste

• The combination of soy sauce and tomato paste gives potato stew a much-appreciated umami flavor.
• Like the mustard, these two ingredients are vital to making a flavorful and rich potato stew, so don’t forget them.

Vegetable Broth

• While we recommend using vegetable broth in this potato stew recipe, you can use hot water instead if you’d prefer.
• To make this potato stew, you can use a low-sodium, chicken, or vegetable broth.
• However, when choosing a broth, working with the salt you add to the dish is essential. For example, choose a standard chicken or vegetable broth instead of a low-sodium broth. You should only add a small amount of salt at the end.
  Always add salt according to your taste.

Herbs

• The herbs used in this stew recipe add more flavor, freshness, and divine aromas. You can use fresh rosemary and thyme, but we usually use dried herbs as these offer more convenience.
• You can use any herbs, but we strongly recommend Italian seasoning, which gives the stew a more aromatic flavor.

Ingredient Tips 

• Potatoes: Opt for waxy varieties like Yukon Gold for a firmer texture in stews.
• Celery & Carrots: Freshness is vital; crisp celery and bright-colored carrots offer the best flavors.
• Onions: Yellow onions offer a natural sweetness, perfect for a stew base.
• Frozen Peas: Briefly thaw before adding to prevent overcooling the stew.
• Dijon Mustard: Ensure it’s well-mixed; clumps can overpower specific bites.
• Soy Sauce: Low-sodium versions prevent the stew from becoming too salty.
• Garlic: Use freshly minced for a more potent flavor.
• Tomato Paste: Opt for paste in tubes; they’re convenient and minimize waste.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs impart a brighter flavor, but dried ones can be more potent.
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor, but regular olive oil is ideal for sautéing.

What Do You Need To Make The Best Potato Stew?

You will need the right ingredients to make the best potato stew possible. Luckily, you won’t struggle to find any ingredients needed to make this potato stew.

There are only 16 different ingredients you need to make this recipe. However, you can add more or remove some of the ingredients if there’s something else you like or something you dislike.

If you want to follow this recipe perfectly, you’ll need the following ingredients :

• Potatoes (any kind)
• Your choice of veggies (celery, carrots, onions)
• Frozen peas
• Dijon mustard
• Soy sauce
• Garlic
• Tomato paste
• Low-sodium vegetable broth
• Salt & pepper
• Olive oil
• Herbs (rosemary, Italian seasoning, thyme)

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients? 

• Keto: Substitute potatoes with radishes or turnips. Use coconut oil instead of olive oil for added fat content.
• Paleo: Avoid soy sauce and use coconut aminos. Eliminate the peas and add more leafy greens.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free, or substitute it with tamari.
• Whole30: Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos and skip the Dijon mustard.
• Vegetarian & Vegan: The base recipe is vegetarian. For a vegan version, ensure all added ingredients (like broths or sauces) are free from animal products.

Recipe Directions

Now you know more about our potato stew recipe, let us show you how to make it. You’ll be delighted to hear that this potato stew recipe is easy to make.

It only takes 7 minutes to prepare the ingredients and 33 minutes to cook the stew. Better still, there are only 6 simple steps to follow.

• Heat & Prep: Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven. Meanwhile, dice onions, carrots, celery, potatoes, and mince garlic.
• Sauté Veggies: Sauté onions and garlic until translucent, add celery and carrots, and mix.
• Add Ingredients: Incorporate potatoes, tomato paste, herbs, soy sauce, mustard, and broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 25 minutes. Stir occasionally.
• Frozen Peas: Introduce frozen peas. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes until tender.
• Finish: Turn off the heat, taste, and adjust the seasoning.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings  

• Proteins: Enhance richness with chunks of chicken, beef, tofu, or beans for added heartiness.
• Creaminess: Swirl in some cream, coconut milk, or cashew cream for a velvety touch.
• Spice Kick: Incorporate chili flakes, paprika, or cayenne for a fiery twist.
• Veggies: Introduce mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for varied textures and flavors.
• Toppings: Crispy bacon bits, shredded cheese, or croutons can add a delightful crunch.
• Herbal Garnish: Freshly chopped parsley, chives, or dill elevate the stew’s freshness.
• Citrus Zest: A sprinkle of lemon or orange zest can brighten flavors.
• Grains: Serve atop quinoa or mix in barley for a fuller meal.
• Nutty Element: Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds offer a surprising crunch.
• Heat: Drizzle a little hot sauce or chili oil for an extra punch.

Scaling The Recipe

• Determine Ratio: If the original recipe serves 4 and you want to serve 8, your scaling factor is 2. For 2 servings, it’s 0.5.
• Ingredient Proportion: Multiply each ingredient quantity by the scaling factor.
• Adjust Cooking Vessel: Upscaling might require a larger pot, while downscaling might need a smaller one.
• Monitor Cooking Time: While liquids and simmering times increase with larger quantities, it’s not always linear. Monitor closely.
• Stirring & Heat Distribution: Upscaled recipes may need more frequent stirring to ensure even cooking.
• Seasoning: While scaling, taste regularly. Sometimes, seasonings may need slight adjustments beyond direct proportion for optimal flavor.

What Is Used For Garnishing? 

• Herbs: Freshly chopped parsley, cilantro, chives, mint, or dill add color and flavor.
• Citrus: Lemon, lime, orange zest, or wedges provide a fresh touch.
• Edible Flowers: Violets, pansies, or nasturtiums bring elegance.
• Seeds & Nuts: Toasted sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, or slivered almonds add crunch.
• Spices: A sprinkle of paprika, sumac, or saffron threads can elevate a dish.
• Dairy: Dollops of yogurt, sour cream, or grated cheese offer creaminess and contrast.
• Drizzles: Olive oil, balsamic reduction, or melted chocolate for a finishing touch.
• Vegetable & Fruit Slices: Thinly sliced radishes, cucumber, or strawberries create a visual and textural contrast.
• Microgreens: Tiny, delicate greens add both nutrition and aesthetics.

Can I Make Potato Stew In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot? 

Slow Cooker

• Prepare and sauté your veggies briefly in a skillet for enhanced flavor.
• Transfer everything to the slow cooker, adding all other ingredients except the frozen peas.
• Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in frozen peas during the last 30 minutes.

Instant Pot

• Use the “Sauté” function to cook your onions, garlic, and other veggies.
• Add all ingredients except frozen peas, and lock the lid.
• Set to “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” for 8 minutes.
• Quick release, add peas and simmer using the “Sauté” function until peas are tender.

Can I Use Store Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own? 

Store-Bought Broth

• Convenience: It’s quick and handy for impromptu cooking.
• Consistency: Flavor and salt content are uniform across batches.
• Variety: Many types and flavors are available, including organic, low-sodium, and specific diet varieties.

Homemade Broth

• Flavor Control: You can tweak the taste based on your preferences and the recipe’s needs.
• No Additives: Free from preservatives or artificial flavors often found in commercial broths.
• Cost-Efficient: Made using kitchen scraps like vegetable peels and bone remnants.

Can I Use Different Types Of Meat/Fish/Pasta/Vegetables For The Soup? 

• Meat: Beef, chicken, or pork can be added for heartiness. Remember to sear them for flavor.
• Fish: Firmer fish like salmon or cod can be integrated. Add them towards the end to avoid overcooking.
• Pasta: Small pasta shapes like macaroni or orzo work best. Pre-cook or add directly depending on desired softness.
• Vegetables: Beyond the basics, consider zucchini, bell peppers, green beans, or kale. Adjust cooking times based on the vegetable’s hardness.

Success Tips – Tips And Tricks For Making The Soup

Here are some simple tips and tricks to help you make soup.

Prepping Tips

• Uniformity: Cut ingredients in consistent sizes for even cooking.
• Freshness: Use fresh herbs at the end but dried herbs at the beginning.
• Stock Quality: A good soup relies on a quality broth or stock. Homemade is best, but store-bought can be enhanced with herbs and spices.

Cooking Time Tips

• Layering: Start with aromatic veggies like onions and garlic, then add primary ingredients.
• Slow Simmer: A gentle simmer extracts flavors without overcooking.
• Taste As You Go: Adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process.
• Pasta & Rice: Add them towards the end to prevent overcooking or sogginess.

Nutritional Values 

Potato stew, a culinary delight, boasts impressive nutritional values. Rich in vitamins, fiber, and essential minerals, it’s a hearty meal that nourishes both body and soul. Dive into its healthful benefits!

What Are The Total Calories In The Soup? 

The Potato Stew is a healthy recipe with ample nutrition and minerals. You will get an average calorie of 200 to 300 per serving with the ingredients mentioned in this recipe. 

However, it may change based on the quality and quantity of ingredients you use and when you add extra to the stew. So, using a calorie calculator for an accurate calorie count is better.

Dietary Restrictions Of The Potato Stew

• Gluten: While inherently gluten-free, ensure broths and soy sauce don’t contain gluten.
• Vegan/Vegetarian: The basic recipe is plant-based, but always check broth labels for hidden animal products.
• Soy Allergy: Soy sauce is a concern. Opt for a soy-free alternative.
• Nightshades: Potatoes belong to the nightshade family, which some may need to avoid.
• Low-Sodium: Watch sodium levels, especially if using store-bought broths and sauces.
• Low-Carb/Keto: Potatoes are high in carbs; a keto version would need modifications.
• Mustard & Celery Allergy: Be cautious as both are common allergens for some.

What Are The Health Benefits Of Potato Stew? 

• Vitamin Rich: Potatoes provide essential vitamins like C and B6.
• Fiber: Potatoes and veggies enhance digestion and promote satiety.
• Low Fat: Primarily plant-based, it’s inherently low in unhealthy fats.
• Antioxidants: Ingredients like garlic and onions contain compounds beneficial for heart health.
• Immune Boosting: The broth base, especially if homemade, offers minerals and amino acids vital for immune function.
• Bone Health: Celery and onions are good sources of vitamin K.
• Anti-inflammatory: Ingredients like garlic and rosemary have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Hydration: The broth-based nature helps maintain hydration levels.

Nutrition Table 

How Can I Make Potato Stew Lower In Sodium? 

• Homemade Broth: Opt for homemade vegetable broth over store-bought versions, controlling the salt content.
• Limit or Omit Soy Sauce: Replace with coconut aminos or low-sodium tamari for flavor without high sodium.
• Fresh Ingredients: Rely on fresh vegetables instead of canned ones, which often contain added salt.
• Limit Added Salt: Taste as you go, adding minimal salt initially and adjusting at the end.
• Spices & Herbs: Enhance flavor with rosemary, thyme, and spices, diverting attention from salt.
• Lemon/Zest: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon or zest to boost flavor brightness without added salt.

How Can I Make Potato Stew Lower In Sugar? 

• Natural Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables rather than canned, as some contain added sugars.
• Broth: Opt for homemade or ensure store-bought versions are free of added sugars.
• Tomato Paste: Check labels and choose brands without added sugars.
• Limit Carrots: While nutritious, carrots add natural sweetness. Use sparingly or substitute with less sweet vegetables.
• Soy Sauce: Some versions can contain sugars. Read labels or consider low-sugar alternatives.
• Taste Balance: Enhance flavors with herbs and spices, negating the need for sweetness.
• Monitor Add-ins: If incorporating other ingredients, ensure they don’t introduce unwanted sugars.

How To Serve The Potato Stew At Its Best? 

• Reheat Gently: If prepared ahead, reheat on low heat to maintain texture and flavor.
• Texture: Before serving, check the consistency. If too thick, add a touch of broth; if thin, simmer a bit longer.
• Taste Check: Adjust seasoning if necessary, balancing flavors with herbs, spices, or a squeeze of lemon.
• Bowl Choice: Serve in pre-warmed bowls to keep the stew hot longer.
• Garnish: Elevate with freshly chopped herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or freshly ground black pepper.
• Accompaniments: Serve with crusty bread, croutons, or a side salad to complement.

Perfect Side Dishes To Complement Potato Stew 

Another great thing about this potato stew recipe is that we can serve it with various side dishes. Alternatively, you can serve it on its own.

We like to serve this potato stew with panini bread, flatbread, or focaccia. We serve the stew on its own when we’re in a rush.

Make your flatbread or focaccia with your potato stew if you have enough time. Don’t worry if you don’t have enough time, though, as store-bought bread works well too.

There are other things you can serve this potato stew with too. These include:

• Mashed potatoes
• Brown rice
• Crusty bread
• Fluffy biscuits
• Wild rice
• Dinner rolls

How Long Can We Store The Soup? 

• Refrigeration: In a sealed container, the stew will keep for 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For more extended storage, potato stew can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Before freezing, allow it to cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Reheating: Thaw frozen stew in the fridge overnight. When reheating, bring to a boil and ensure it’s heated through.

Can I Make The Soup In Advance? 

Making soup in advance is convenient and can enhance its flavors as ingredients meld over time. Prepare your soup as usual, then cool it quickly to prevent bacterial growth. 

Store in the refrigerator if consumed within 3-4 days. For more extended storage, freeze the soup. When ready to serve, reheat thoroughly, adjusting seasonings if necessary. This approach is beneficial for busy schedules, gatherings, or meal planning, ensuring a flavorful, comforting meal is ready when needed.

What Can We Do With Leftovers? 

• Pot Pie: Use the stew as a filling. Top with a pie crust and bake.
• Shepherd’s Pie: Spread the stew as a base layer in a baking dish and cover with mashed potatoes. Bake until golden.
• Stew Pancakes: Mix with flour and egg, then pan-fry as small patties.
• Stuffed Peppers: Fill bell peppers with stew and bake.
• Stew Omelette: Mix with beaten eggs and cook.
• Stew-filled Wraps: Use as a warm filling for wraps or burritos.
• Casserole Base: Layer with cheese and breadcrumbs.
• Stew Pasta: Mix with cooked pasta for a hearty dish.
• Stew Muffins: Incorporate into a savory muffin batter.
• Stew Croquettes: Form into balls, bread, and fry.

Special Tools/Equipment Needed

• Dutch Oven: This thick-walled pot provides even heat, perfect for simmering stews.
• Sharp Knives: Essential for uniformly dicing vegetables and ensuring even cooking.
• Cutting Board: A large one facilitates prep work.
• Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot.
• Potato Peeler: Streamlines the peeling process.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
• Ladle: For serving without spilling.
• Colander: Helpful if you need to drain or rinse ingredients.
• Immersion Blender: For those preferring a creamier, blended stew.
• Thermometer: Ensures the stew reaches a safe temperature, especially when reheating.

Final Thoughts

You now have everything you need to make a healthy, filling, and, more importantly, delicious potato stew. This post gives you all the information you need to make the best potato stew.

We’ve listed all the ingredients you need, the steps you must follow to make the stew, recipe notes that will help you pick the best ingredients, and even a list of sides that can accompany your stew.

All that’s left to do now is find the ingredients you need, make this potato stew, and give it a try to see what you think.

We do no doubt that you’ll love this recipe!

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead Of Regular Potatoes In The Stew?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a different flavor and texture, introducing a hint of sweetness and rich, vibrant color to the stew. Adjust cooking times, as sweet potatoes might cook faster than some regular potato varieties.

What Can I Substitute For Dijon Mustard In The Stew?

If you’re out of Dijon mustard, you can use whole-grain mustard, yellow mustard, or even a touch of horseradish or wasabi for that sharpness. Adjust quantity based on personal taste.

Can I Make This Stew Creamier Without Adding Cream?

You can blend some cooked potatoes and reintroduce them to the stew for a creamier consistency. Another option is to stir in unsweetened plant-based milk like coconut or almond milk.

How Can I Make This Stew Spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or even diced fresh chili during cooking. Alternatively, a splash of hot sauce upon serving can also do the trick!

Can I Use Chicken Or Beef Broth Instead Of Vegetable Broth?

Definitely! Both chicken and beef broths can add depth to the flavor. Just be mindful of the salt content and adjust the seasoning accordingly.