Cozy Vegan Stew with Mushrooms

Step 1

Aromatics: Warm the oil over medium-high in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Add the onion once warm and sauté for 3 minutes, until translucent and slightly golden. Stir the tomato paste in with the onion and fry for 1 minute. Then, add in the carrot, celery, and mushrooms. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring only every 1 to 2 minutes or to get seared edges.

Step 2

Spices: Add the flour, smoked paprika, black pepper, and garlic to the pot and stir well. Sauté for 1 minute, then add in the thyme and bay leaf. Deglaze the pot with red wine and stir well, scraping the bottom of the pot to get the browned bits (aka flavor!) into the broth.

Step 3

Broth: Add the potatoes, broth and water to the pot, cover, and bring to a  boil over medium-high heat. Uncover the pot, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The stew is done once the potatoes are fork-tender and the broth has reduced and thickened. If the stew gets too thick for your liking, thin it out with additional broth or water.

Step 4

Serve: Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, if desired. Serve warm; leftovers will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or in an airtight jar or container in the freezer for up to two months.