Potato Stew
Easy Potato Stew is a cozy, warming dish that definitely hits the spot on chilly days. With its rich, hearty texture and savory flavors, this plant-based stew is not just comforting but nourishing, making it perfect for everything from family dinners to a simple weeknight meal. Whether you’re a long-time vegan or simply seeking a delicious dish that’s easy to whip up, this potato stew offers a delightful blend of satisfying ingredients that will bring smiles around the table. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up veggies you might have hanging around in the fridge.
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When I first crafted this easy potato stew, I remember being pleasantly surprised at how quickly everything came together. It only takes about 35 minutes from start to finish, but the depth of flavor feels way more sophisticated. I found that layering simple ingredients can create a dish so rich in flavor it can rival any restaurant fare. So, if you’re looking for something that warms your soul and nourishes your body, this potato stew awaits your culinary touch. Gather your ingredients and let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: This easy potato stew takes just 35 minutes from prep to plate, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Irresistible Flavor: The savory blend of herbs and hearty vegetables create a comforting meal that’s bursting with flavor.
- Budget-Friendly: Utilizing simple pantry staples, you’ll find this stew easy on the wallet.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep for the week ahead—it’s incredibly versatile!
- Diet-Friendly Options: Naturally vegan, this dish is ideal for anyone looking for plant-based meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: A staple for sautéing, brings richness to the stew. Feel free to swap with any neutral oil if you prefer.
- 1 large onion (any color): Adds sweetness and depth; yellow onions work really well.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced or pressed: These bring an aromatic punch; fresh garlic is always best.
- 3 medium-sized carrots, diced: Sweet and crunchy, carrots add color and nutrition. You can substitute with parsnips for a twist.
- 2 celery ribs, diced: Provides a nice crunch and earthy flavor; can be omitted if you’re not a fan.
- 1 ½ lb (675 grams) potatoes, diced (approx 1-inch cubes): The heart of the stew. Use Yukon Gold or Russet for creaminess.
- ½ tsp dried rosemary: This herb adds a woodsy flavor; fresh would work lovely too!
- ½ tsp Italian herbs: A delightful mix that enhances the overall taste; store-bought blends are perfect.
- ¼ tsp dried thyme: Earthy and aromatic, thyme balances the dish beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds umami; tamari is a great gluten-free alternative.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Gives a subtle tang; if you’re sensitive to mustard flavors, reduce the amount.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Adds a touch of acidity and color—perfectly complements the other flavors.
- ½ – ¾ teaspoon fine salt, or according to taste: Adjust based on your broth’s sodium levels.
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper, plus more to serve: A bit of heat; freshly cracked pepper elevates the flavor.
- 3 cups (720 ml) low-sodium vegetable broth or water: Broth enhances flavor; feel free to use homemade or store-bought.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Sweetness that pops in every bite; fresh peas can be used if available.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, to serve (optional): Great for garnish, adding a fresh touch to the stew.
How to Make Potato Stew

Sauté Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Add Vegetables: Toss in the diced carrots and celery, mixing them in with the onion and garlic for another 2 minutes to soften slightly.
Combine Ingredients: Stir in the diced potatoes, dried rosemary, Italian herbs, dried thyme, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, tomato paste, ½ teaspoon salt, ⅛ teaspoon black pepper, and 3 cups of low-sodium vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Simmer the Stew: Once boiling, reduce the heat and cover the pot with a lid. Let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until the potatoes are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
Add Peas: Stir in 1 cup of frozen peas during the last 3 minutes of cooking, just until they’re heated through.
Thicken (Optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, scoop out 1-2 cups of the broth along with some potatoes, blend it until smooth, and return it to the pot. Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the pot for a chunky texture.
Serve: Turn off the heat, taste, and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, topped with freshly ground black pepper, a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil, and freshly chopped parsley for an extra pop of flavor. Enjoy!
Storing & Reheating
To store leftover potato stew, allow it to cool at room temperature for no more than two hours before transferring to an airtight container. It will last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, make sure to use a freezer-safe container, and it can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, usually about 5-10 minutes. Keep in mind that the texture might change slightly after freezing, so a stir or splash of broth can help refresh it!
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Always taste as you go! It’s the best way to ensure your stew is seasoned perfectly.
- Make sure to dice the potatoes uniformly so they cook evenly and are tender throughout.
- If you prefer a creamier stew, consider adding a splash of coconut milk just before serving.
- Blindly blending the stew can give it a nice texture, but leave some chunks for that hearty feel.
- This stew can be made ahead of time; the flavors deepen as it sits, making leftovers all the more delicious!
Savor the heartiness of potato stew while surrounding yourself with warmth and comfort in every bowl. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that benefits from a personal touch and your kitchen creativity. Don’t hesitate to make this dish your own—experiment by adding more veggies or different herbs, and enjoy the delightful surprises that come with trying new flavors.

Recipe FAQs
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a lovely sweetness and vibrant color to your stew. Just remember they cook slightly faster, so you may want to adjust your simmering time accordingly.
Is there a gluten-free option for this stew?
Yes! Simply substitute soy sauce with gluten-free tamari. The rest of the ingredients are already gluten-free, making this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Definitely! To make this potato stew in a slow cooker, sauté the onion and garlic first, then add all the ingredients into the slow cooker. Cook on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until all the vegetables are tender.
What can I serve with potato stew?
Potato stew stands on its own, but it pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a side salad, or even a light grain like quinoa or rice if you want something more filling!
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📖 Recipe Card

Potato Stew
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soups
- Method: Stove
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Potato Stew delivers hearty flavors with simple prep. Bursting with garlic, carrots, and rich broth, it’s a cozy meal for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion (any color)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
- 3 medium-sized carrots, diced
- 2 celery ribs, diced
- 1 ½ lb (675 grams) potatoes, diced (approx 1 inch cubes)
- ½ tsp dried rosemary
- ½ tsp italian herbs
- ¼ tsp dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ½ – ¾ teaspoon fine salt, or according to taste
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper, plus more to serve
- 3 cups (720 ml) low-sodium vegetable broth or water
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, to serve (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent.
- Add the diced carrots and celery, and toss to combine.
- Stir in the remaining ingredients (except for the peas), bring to a boil, reduce heat, and cover.
- Let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Optional: For a thicker broth, blend 1-2 cups of the stew, then return it to the pot and stir.
- Serve with black pepper, a drizzle of olive oil, and fresh parsley.
Notes
Feel free to customize vegetables based on your preference.
For added richness, a splash of cream can be stirred in before serving.
Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
