Veggie Stew Crock Pot Recipes for Easy Healthy Meals

There’s something incredibly comforting about a hearty veggie stew simmering away in a crock pot, filling your home with delicious aromas and promising a warm, nourishing meal at the end of the day. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian, vegan, or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, crock pot veggie stews are a fantastic way to enjoy a medley of vegetables and rich flavors with minimal effort.

Slow cooking allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, creating a stew that’s both satisfying and packed with nutrients. Plus, it’s perfect for busy days when you want to come home to a ready-to-eat meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Today, we’ll explore an easy-to-follow veggie stew crock pot recipe that you can customize with your favorite vegetables and seasonings. It’s wholesome, budget-friendly, and ideal for meal prepping.

So grab your slow cooker, and let’s dive into this cozy, plant-based stew that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This veggie stew crock pot recipe is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly flexible — you can swap in whatever fresh or frozen vegetables you have on hand.

It’s also packed with fiber, vitamins, and plant-based protein, making it a balanced meal in a bowl. The slow cooking process enhances the flavors, resulting in a stew that’s rich, hearty, and deeply satisfying.

Moreover, it’s a set-it-and-forget-it recipe, perfect for busy households or anyone who wants to enjoy a nutritious dinner without fuss. Whether you’re looking for comfort food during colder months or a light yet filling summer meal, this crock pot veggie stew fits the bill.

Lastly, the recipe is vegan and gluten-free by default, accommodating a wide range of dietary needs, making it an excellent choice for entertaining or everyday meals.

Ingredients

• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup butternut squash, cubed
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 bay leaf
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Crock pot / Slow cooker (4-6 quart size recommended)
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Can opener for canned ingredients

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Peel and chop the carrots, potatoes, and butternut squash into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, chop celery and green beans.
2. Sauté aromatics (optional but recommended): In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and translucent. This step adds depth to the stew but can be skipped if short on time.
3. Add ingredients to crock pot: Place the carrots, celery, potatoes, butternut squash, green beans, canned diced tomatoes (with juice), and chickpeas in the crock pot. Pour in the vegetable broth.
4. Season the stew: Stir in the smoked paprika, dried thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and the bay leaf. Add the sautéed onion and garlic mixture if you prepared it.
5. Cook low and slow: Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The vegetables should be tender and flavors well combined.
6. Final touches: Remove the bay leaf. Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
7. Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread or over cooked grains.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra protein boost, toss in some cooked lentils or beans. You can also add leafy greens like spinach or kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking for added nutrients.”

If you prefer a thicker stew, stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water about 30 minutes before the end of cooking. For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño.

Feel free to swap butternut squash with sweet potatoes, or add mushrooms for an earthy flavor. This recipe is very forgiving and perfect for using seasonal vegetables.

For those wanting to explore more delicious vegetarian slow cooker meals, check out Best Vegetarian Slow Cooker Recipes NZ For Easy Meals or warm your heart with Vegan Fall Soup Recipes To Warm Your Cozy Evenings.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This veggie stew is delicious on its own, but consider pairing it with some warm, crusty bread or a soft gluten-free vegan bread for a filling meal. You can also serve it over cooked quinoa, brown rice, or your favorite ancient grain for an extra boost of protein and texture.

For a fresh contrast, toss together a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or try a side like steamed greens with a squeeze of lemon. If you enjoy spicy flavors, drizzle some of the Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend on top for a subtle kick.

Conclusion

A cozy veggie stew made in a crock pot is the ultimate comfort food that’s as versatile as it is nourishing. This recipe allows you to enjoy a wholesome, plant-based meal with minimal effort, thanks to the magic of slow cooking.

It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or simply when you crave something warm and satisfying.

With endless possibilities for customization and variations, this stew can easily become your go-to dish for healthy eating. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables and spices to make it uniquely yours.

For more inspiration on vegetarian and vegan meals, be sure to explore A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion and Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals. Happy cooking!

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