Hearty Vegetable Stew: A Warm, Comforting Bowl of Goodness

Start by chopping and slicing all the vegetables: cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, onion, garlic, potatoes, and zucchini.

Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the onions are soft and translucent.

Cook the Vegetables:
Add the carrots, bell pepper, zucchini, and potatoes to the pot. Stir to combine and let them cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Add the Broth and Seasonings:
Pour in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), dried thyme, dried oregano, and the bay leaf. Stir well to combine, then bring the stew to a simmer.

Simmer the Stew:
Reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally.

Add the Cabbage:
Once the vegetables are tender, add the chopped cabbage to the pot. Continue simmering for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cabbage is softened.

Season and Serve:
Remove the bay leaf and taste the stew. Add salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Serving and Storage Tips