I cooked up this Witches Brew Stew for a Halloween gathering, and it was an absolute hit! The combination of hearty ingredients and vibrant colors made it not only delicious but also a perfect centerpiece for the spooky table. Everyone loved the cozy flavors, and it was the ideal dish to warm up our spirits on a chilly evening. Plus, the fun presentation had everyone eagerly ladling out their own portions!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this enchanting stew:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
- Optional: 1 cup cooked pasta or rice for a heartier stew
- Optional: eyeball-shaped pasta or other fun shapes for a spooky touch
Instructions
- Sauté the Veggies: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in the garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper, cooking for about 5 minutes.
- Add Zucchini and Tomatoes: Add the zucchini and diced tomatoes (with juice) to the pot, stirring to combine.
- Pour in the Broth: Add the vegetable or chicken broth, chickpeas, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low and let the stew simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in Greens: Add the fresh spinach or kale and let it wilt in the stew for about 5 minutes. If using pasta or rice, stir it in at this point.
- Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and, if desired, garnish with spooky-shaped pasta or a sprinkle of herbs.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 180
- Total Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 6g
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
How to Serve
- Serve in cauldron-like pots for a fun presentation.
- Pair with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for creaminess.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or croutons for added texture.
- Consider serving in themed bowls or with Halloween decorations.
Additional Tips
- Make It Ahead: This stew can be made a day in advance; the flavors will deepen overnight!
- Add Spice: For a kick, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Protein Boost: Include diced chicken or sausage for extra protein if desired.
- Storage: Leftover stew can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This stew freezes well; just ensure to cool it completely before transferring to airtight containers.
Recipe Variations
- Pumpkin Witches Brew: Add 1 cup of pumpkin puree for a seasonal twist and a creamy texture.
- Curry Witches Brew: Stir in a tablespoon of curry powder for a unique flavor profile.
- Vegan Option: This stew is naturally vegan, but ensure any added toppings are also plant-based.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a Halloween-themed salad or spooky appetizers.
- Create a buffet with various toppings and sides for guests to customize their bowls.
- Serve alongside themed drinks, like a spooky punch or cider.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This stew freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Special Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and knife
- Ladle for serving
FAQ Section
- Can I use frozen vegetables?
- Yes! Frozen veggies work great and can save prep time.
- How do I make it spicier?
- Add spices like cayenne pepper or hot sauce to taste.
- Can I use different beans?
- Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite beans.
- What can I substitute for chickpeas?
- White beans or lentils are excellent alternatives.
- Can I make this gluten-free?
- Yes! Just ensure any added grains are gluten-free.
Enjoy making this delicious and spooky Witches Brew Stew—it’s sure to warm hearts and fill bellies during your Halloween festivities!
Print
Witches Brew Stew Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
- Optional: 1 cup cooked pasta or rice for a heartier stew
- Optional: eyeball-shaped pasta or other fun shapes for a spooky touch
Instructions
- Sauté the Veggies: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in the garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper, cooking for about 5 minutes.
- Add Zucchini and Tomatoes: Add the zucchini and diced tomatoes (with juice) to the pot, stirring to combine.
- Pour in the Broth: Add the vegetable or chicken broth, chickpeas, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low and let the stew simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in Greens: Add the fresh spinach or kale and let it wilt in the stew for about 5 minutes. If using pasta or rice, stir it in at this point.
- Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and, if desired, garnish with spooky-shaped pasta or a sprinkle of herbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Per Serving
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 6g
