Description

This hearty Summer Vegetable Stew is a comforting blend of fresh summer vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth, enriched with evaporated milk for creaminess, and optionally enhanced with protein like chicken. Perfect for a wholesome family meal, this stew balances tender potatoes, carrots, zucchini, tomatoes, and corn with savory seasonings and a touch of Parmesan cheese for topping.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups diced potatoes
2 cups diced carrots
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 cups diced zucchini
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 (14.5 oz) can corn, undrained
1/2 teaspoon rubbed sage
1/2 teaspoon all-purpose seasoning
1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
2 tablespoons cornstarch
Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

2 cups diced cooked chicken or other protein
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 to build the stew’s base flavor.
Add Root Vegetables: Add the diced potatoes and carrots to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to slightly soften and blend flavors.
Simmer Vegetables: Pour in the broth, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
Add Remaining Vegetables and Seasoning: Stir in the diced zucchini, canned diced tomatoes with their juice, corn with liquid, rubbed sage, all-purpose seasoning, and optional cooked protein such as chicken, ensuring everything is well combined.
Cook Until Tender: Bring the stew back to a gentle boil and cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until all vegetables are tender and flavors meld.
Add Evaporated Milk: Reserve 2 to 3 tablespoons of evaporated milk. Pour the remaining evaporated milk into the stew, stirring to incorporate creaminess.
Thicken the Stew: In a small bowl, mix the reserved evaporated milk with cornstarch until smooth. Stir this mixture into the stew to help it thicken.
Final Simmer and Seasoning: Simmer the stew for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until it slightly thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Serve the stew hot, topped with shredded Parmesan cheese and fresh diced tomatoes if desired for added flavor and presentation.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and omit the cooked chicken.
The evaporated milk adds creaminess without heavy cream; substitute with a plant-based milk for a dairy-free option.
Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper, after thickening to avoid overseasoning.
You can add other summer vegetables like bell peppers or green beans according to preference.
Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Stew
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American